2026 Compare Cities Job Market:
Arcata, CA vs West Lafayette, IN

Change Cities
Highlights
- Job Growth in West Lafayette has been positive.
- West Lafayette has 3.8% more unemployment than Arcata.
- West Lafayette job growth has decreased by 69.5% in the past 10 years.
 Arcata, CAWest Lafayette, INUnited States
 Current Unemployment  Unlock2.9%6.0%
 Future Job Growth31.3%  Unlock33.5%
 Recent Job Growth  Unlock-7.2%-6.2%
 3 Yr. Job Growth-9.1%  Unlock-3.6%
 5 Yr. Job Growth  Unlock5.1%-0.7%
 10 Yr. Job Growth-7.6%  Unlock6.3%
Reviews for Arcata    17 Reviews

Pros: Nature hikes Cons: One of highest crime rates in the nation. Opioid epidemic going on (you’ll regularly witness drug deals and ppl doing drugs) No  More

   |    Reply

It takes a special set of preferences to select Arcata. Is this you? - You love clouds and fog. You are happy if you see the sun maybe 10-20 times a year. - Chilly  More

   |    Reply

Over 12 years ago

I've lived in Humboldt for over 30 yrs and know all the areas well. Arcata is the jewel of Humboldt due to having a university and many liberal creative people. There is  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Arcata

Reviews for West Lafayette    11 Reviews

I am originally from Greencastle, Indiana, a nice friendly rural town and home to DePauw University. Presently, I live in West Lafayette, Indiana, due to my having been  More

   |    Reply

Over 12 years ago

It's a nice small town. It's too bad it's not closer to Indy. I think I would like it here  More

   |    Reply

Over 15 years ago

They have good schools, parks and always have events to  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of West Lafayette


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.