2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Chico, CA vs San Marcos, TX

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in San Marcos older or younger than people in Chico?
- The Median Age in San Marcos is 5.4 years younger than in Chico.

Are housing costs cheaper in San Marcos or Chico?
- San Marcos housing costs are 23.8% less expensive than Chico housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, San Marcos or Chico?
- The average commute for residents of San Marcos is 5.5 minutes longer than it is for residents of Chico.

Things to do in Chico?
Chico, California is an amazing city located in Northern California. It's known for its beautiful parklands, vibrant culture, and lively downtown area. Visitors can take advantage of outdoor activities like hiking at Bidwell Park or biking along the Sacramento River Trail to explore the local area. Culture buffs can visit places like the National Yo-Yo Museum or the Gateway Science Museum to gain insight into local culture. After exploring, sample delicious food from restaurants like Burgers & Brew or The Banshee Restaurant and Bar. With so much to offer, Chico is a great place to visit for an unforgettable experience!

Things to do in San Marcos?
San Marcos, Texas is a vibrant city located in the heart of Hays County. This welcoming community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the Wonder World Cave or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Rio Vista Park, Aquarena Springs and Purgatory Creek Natural Area. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make San Marcos their home.

 Chico, CASan Marcos, TXUnited States
 Population  Unlock64,812329,725,481
 Median Income$60,507  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock24.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$440,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.57  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Chico    31 Reviews

Chico is imperfect like most places, but it's still good. Any and all of it's issues proceed from it's main fault of growing increasingly liberal, which is to be  More

   |    Reply

Uuwuu · 
Over 4 years ago

Chico's decent. I've been living here for ~5 years now. Eveen though my brother loves Chico and would like to stay, I would like to leave. I have no issues with crime or  More

   |    Reply

I was born in Oroville and I grew up in Oroville and Biggs. I have heard all my life about crime in chico. Well I have lived in Chico near Chapman for almost 10 years  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Chico

Reviews for San Marcos    6 Reviews

An area with so much potential and existing natural beauty.Sadly bad urban planning is clearly obvious.Looks like fun for tens of thousands of students.However for the  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

San Marcos has the most beautiful people and places that I have ever seen throughout my travels. I love this city so much that I decided to settle down here and start a  More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

I spent several summers and a couple winters in San Marcos during my formidable years and really have to tell those interested about what a nice town it is. The best  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of San Marcos


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.