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

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Monica older or younger than people in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
- The Median Age in Santa Monica is 22.2 years younger than in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Monica or Carmel-by-the-Sea?
- Santa Monica housing costs are 13.5% less expensive than Carmel-by-the-Sea housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Monica or Carmel-by-the-Sea?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Monica is 3.7 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 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!

 Carmel-by-the-Sea, CASanta Monica, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock92,828329,725,481
 Median Income$100,365  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,916,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%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 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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