2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Big Bear Lake, CA vs Santa Monica, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Monica older or younger than people in Big Bear Lake?
- The Median Age in Santa Monica is 3.9 years younger than in Big Bear Lake.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Monica or Big Bear Lake?
- Santa Monica housing costs are 182.5% more expensive than Big Bear Lake housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Monica or Big Bear Lake?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Monica is 4.8 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Big Bear Lake.

Things to do in Big Bear Lake?
Living in Big Bear Lake, CA is like a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts. From the breathtaking scenery of the San Bernardino National Forest to the crystal clear waters of the lake itself, it's easy to understand why so many people choose to call this place home. The area is filled with activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, kayaking and swimming that are perfect for all ages. During the summer months, visitors can take advantage of warmer climates to enjoy festivals and events like Music in the Mountains and Oktoberfest. With its unique blend of mountain town charm and year-round outdoor activities, Big Bear Lake is definitely a place worth visiting!

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!

 Big Bear Lake, CASanta Monica, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock92,828329,725,481
 Median Income$65,441  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$586,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time30.93  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Big Bear Lake    5 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

We moved to Big Bear Lake a couple of years ago from Los Angeles because of my husband's job. It is a somewhat pretty city, the lake is mirky and surrounded by trash,  More

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Over 15 years ago

Big Bear Lake, a beautiful setting in a remote mountain community in Southern California. A draw to tourists from the Los Angeles area for skiing, boating, and mountain  More

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In the San Bernardino mountains of Southern California, this little town has almost everything you would want to see and do. In the spring and summer the lake is filled  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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