2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Bethesda, MD vs Gainesville, FL

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Highlights
Are people in Gainesville older or younger than people in Bethesda?
- The Median Age in Gainesville is 16.2 years younger than in Bethesda.

Are housing costs cheaper in Gainesville or Bethesda?
- Gainesville housing costs are 74.7% less expensive than Bethesda housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Gainesville or Bethesda?
- The average commute for residents of Gainesville is 11.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Bethesda.

Things to do in Bethesda?
Bethesda, Maryland is an incredible city located just northwest of Washington D.C. This beautiful city offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the stunning Glen Echo Park or the charming Cabin John Regional Park. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Acorn Urban Park, Little Falls Creek Stream Valley, and Capital Crescent Trail. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Bethesda their home.

Things to do in Gainesville?
Gainesville, Florida is a lively city in Alachua County. Home to the University of Florida, this city is known for its vibrant college town atmosphere. With plenty of shops and restaurants along bustling downtown streets and nearby outdoor activities like canoeing and kayaking at Paynes Prairie State Park, there's no shortage of things to do here. Gainesville also has great schools and universities, as well as several parks where visitors can take in the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking for an exciting night out or a peaceful afternoon in nature, Gainesville is sure to have something for everyone.

 Bethesda, MDGainesville, FLUnited States
 Population  Unlock138,741329,725,481
 Median Income$178,370  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock26.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,072,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time29.3  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Bethesda    12 Reviews

Bethesda is awesome if you want to live near DC and in a relatively safe city that has few parking issues. Montgomery county has parking lots in downtown Bethesda and  More

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Amenities are plentiful, but costs continue to rise as do local and state taxes. Overall not a friendly place to  More

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Essentially an upscale suburb of Washington DC. Public transport is easy, there's plenty to do (though with none of the edginess of living closer in DC) and it's minutes  More

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Reviews for Gainesville    60 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

I've lived here most of my life. It's changed a lot, and a lot of the locals don't like it. Because it's home to one of the largest universities in the country, we see a  More

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Lovely diverse city! People is nice and there is always something to do. Outdoors activities are awesome! The springs are beautiful and there are plenty of hiking  More

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Gainesville has the highest taxes and electrical rates in the state. The city is run by a bunch of liberals who have no idea what they are doing. Crime and homelessness  More

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