2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Berkeley, CA vs Santa Monica, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Monica older or younger than people in Berkeley?
- The Median Age in Santa Monica is 9.3 years older than in Berkeley.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Monica or Berkeley?
- Santa Monica housing costs are 25.5% more expensive than Berkeley housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Monica or Berkeley?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Monica is 2.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Berkeley.

Things to do in Berkeley?
Berkeley, California is a vibrant city in the San Francisco Bay Area. It's home to many educational and cultural attractions, such as the University of California at Berkeley, the Lawrence Hall of Science, and live music venues like The Greek Theater. Recreational activities are plentiful as well; visitors can take in views of the Bay from Tilden Regional Park or enjoy a day of sun at Berkeley Marina. Shopping options range from local boutiques to some of the finest retail stores in Northern California while dining experiences could take you anywhere from gourmet restaurants to street food vendors. Whether you’re looking for a place to call home or just some entertainment, Berkeley won't disappoint!

Things to do in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica, California is a vibrant beach city located in Los Angeles County. This popular destination offers something for everyone, from world-class shopping and dining to outdoor activities like surfing and biking along the beachside path. Cultural attractions like the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium and the nearby Getty Villa make it easy to explore the area's history and art. Nightlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the countless bars, nightclubs, and lounges scattered throughout town. With its many attractions and activities, Santa Monica is sure to make your vacation unforgettable!

 Berkeley, CASanta Monica, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock92,828329,725,481
 Median Income$97,834  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,320,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time28.74  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Berkeley    14 Reviews

Have lived in Berkeley for about 35 years now. Housing/Real Estate: If you're looking to move here, $1,000,000 will get you a small cottage in the "flats". Most of  More

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Over 12 years ago

We have the best climate -- summers and winters are mild. Lots of  More

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Over 14 years ago

The 60's have left Berkeley and now it is about MONEY...and the people there have plenty of it and nice hybrid cars (looks like 2 per household) and with a great bicycle  More

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Reviews for Santa Monica    24 Reviews

I moved here to Santa Monica over 10 years ago from Oklahoma City. I was surprised to see that Oklahoma City was ranked higher than Santa Monica on best places. I  More

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I've lived in Santa Monica for over 30 years. It's a Mediterranean climate--sunny and temperate when the rest of the country is under snow! I am walking distance to  More

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I have lived in this city for 4 decades, and it is never been worse than it is now. It is a dangerous disgusting hell hole. Between the crime, the homeless that are not  More

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