2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Columbia, MD vs San Jose, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in San Jose older or younger than people in Columbia?
- The Median Age in San Jose is 1.4 years younger than in Columbia.

Are housing costs cheaper in San Jose or Columbia?
- San Jose housing costs are 168.1% more expensive than Columbia housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, San Jose or Columbia?
- The average commute for residents of San Jose is 1.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Columbia.

Things to do in Columbia?
Columbia, Maryland is a vibrant city located in Howard County. From its lush green parks to its many cultural attractions, Columbia has something for everyone! Visitors can explore outdoor activities like Tribble Mill Park or take in some culture at sites like the Robinson Nature Center. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like The Mall in Columbia or the Banneker Historical Park. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Quarry Lake Restaurant & Bar or Bob Evans. With so much to offer, Columbia is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

Things to do in San Jose?
San Jose, California is a vibrant city filled with attractions, activities and events for all ages. From world-class museums like the Tech Museum of Innovation, to family-friendly destinations like the Children’s Discovery Museum - there's something for everyone in this city. The colorful downtown district boasts an array of shops, restaurants and entertainment to satisfy any traveler, while outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring its nearby parks and trails. With its temperate climate, San Jose offers endless opportunities for year-round fun in the sun - making it an ideal destination for any adventure seeker!

 Columbia, MDSan Jose, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock1,013,337329,725,481
 Median Income$113,592  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$441,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time30.58  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Columbia    28 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

Lived here for a while, beautiful opportunities, pays well, overall nice  More

   |    Reply

Been here 30 years was great at first but once they added a transit bus from baltimore to columbia 15-18 years ago that was the beginning of the end. And about 5 years  More

   |    Reply

Columbia can be described in one word: unequal. The neighborhood I live in, River Hill, is jam-packed with almost million-dollar homes, while the neighborhoods of Long  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Columbia

Reviews for San Jose    90 Reviews

I've lived in west San Jose/Cambrian, between Los Gatos and Almaden SJ since 1997. This side of town somehow avoided the erosion of the American dream. Houses are  More

   |    Reply

I lived in San Jose for 40 years. That’s during the most exciting time when the Silicon Valley was booming with real technology and San Jose was ranked as the safest big  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

I've lived in San Jose, CA for 25 years. This city is being over run with crime and gangs. The cost of living is very high. Granted, you are so close to mountains,  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of San Jose


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.