2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Barstow, CA vs Van Buren, AR

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Highlights
Are people in Van Buren older or younger than people in Barstow?
- The Median Age in Van Buren is 4.5 years older than in Barstow.

Are housing costs cheaper in Van Buren or Barstow?
- Van Buren housing costs are 29.8% less expensive than Barstow housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Van Buren or Barstow?
- The average commute for residents of Van Buren is 2.5 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Barstow.

Things to do in Barstow?
Barstow is an incorporated city sitting within San Bernardino County, California featuring plenty of attractions such as exploring its multiple trails ideal for biking or jogging plus nearby Fort Irwin National Training Center provides amazing views close by. Additionally there are numerous locally owned stores and eateries providing unique items or delicious cuisine great for any budget during their stay here!

Things to do in Van Buren?
Van Buren is a town in Crawford County, Arkansas with a population of about 25,000 people. Located just east of Fort Smith, this historic town was once the second largest in the state and provided trade and transportation services to travelers along the Arkansas River. Van Buren offers numerous attractions such as Park Hill Park, Lake Fort Smith State Park and the Van Buren Historic District. It also boasts top-notch eateries like Emma Jean’s BBQ, shopping options at downtown stores and galleries, entertainment venues like King Opera House Theatre and more. From outdoor activities to historical tours and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Van Buren.

 Barstow, CAVan Buren, ARUnited States
 Population  Unlock23,213329,725,481
 Median Income$48,219  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$247,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.17  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Barstow    14 Reviews

Mike · 

The positive of Barstow- yes there is something positive that can be said about Barstow. At least it's not as bad as South Lake Tahoe. The only reason it gets 2 stars  More

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Over 8 years ago

Just a place to travel thru. Cheap alternative to LA suburbs, about 70 miles or Palm Springs. It is in high Mojave desert, hot in the summer, 100-110, can get down  More

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Be careful is all I can say. I moved there with the focus to buy a home the investor Cliff Unegbu AKA Clifford Unegbu will rip off as many people as he can and use  More

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Reviews for Van Buren    2 Reviews

We moved to Arkansas (and to Van Buren) 4 years ago from the metro Houston, Texas area. We were sick of the traffic and crime that comes with living in a large city.   More

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Over 19 years ago

I don't like Arkansas. It's pretty, but the pay sucks. Taxes are very high, and so are  More

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