2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA vs Novato, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Novato older or younger than people in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
- The Median Age in Novato is 15.5 years younger than in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Are housing costs cheaper in Novato or Carmel-by-the-Sea?
- Novato housing costs are 45.1% less expensive than Carmel-by-the-Sea housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Novato or Carmel-by-the-Sea?
- The average commute for residents of Novato is 10.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Living in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is like living in paradise. With its beautiful white sand beaches, stunning ocean views, and colorful gardens, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this picturesque city. Its unique shops, restaurants and galleries provide visitors with a unique shopping experience while its numerous parks and trails offer plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. The climate is mild year round, making it the perfect spot for vacationers or those looking for a permanent home. The quaint downtown area of Carmel-by-the-Sea provides a relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of the most desirable places to live on the Central Coast.

Things to do in Novato?
Novato, California is located in Marin County, just north of San Francisco. Novato is home to nearly 56,000 people and offers a mix of rural and urban attractions. Residents enjoy outdoor activities such as Mt. Burdell Open Space Preserve and the Novato Arts Center for its art galleries, plays, and music events. Novato also boasts several shopping destinations in addition to top-notch schools, hospitals and services. With its combination of small-town charm, big-city amenities and access to pristine natural beauty, Novato provides an excellent place to call home.

 Carmel-by-the-Sea, CANovato, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock53,214329,725,481
 Median Income$100,365  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock48.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,916,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.45  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Carmel-By-The-Sea    3 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

Climate, cost &  More

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carmel has about 60 vacation homes and a dense cottage-y downtown. basically it is a tourist trap cental business district and a bunch of vacation rental homes. the  More

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Over 17 years ago

Liberals have run me out of town. The political is so overwhelming I am looking to relocate. However, if you are an aging hippie with a great deal of money you will be  More

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Reviews for Novato    9 Reviews

Lush hills, hiking trails, and easy access to both wine country and San Francisco. We love it here.  More

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Over 10 years ago

Novato is a family oriented community located about 20 miles north of the Golden Gate bridge. The quality of life is excellent here assuming your job pays you enough to  More

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Over 11 years ago

We recently moved to a secluded neighborhood in Novato after 25 years in central Marin. While there are fewer restaurants and galleries, we are very pleased with our  More

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