2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Columbia, MD vs Santa Maria, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Maria older or younger than people in Columbia?
- The Median Age in Santa Maria is 9.7 years younger than in Columbia.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Maria or Columbia?
- Santa Maria housing costs are 27.9% more expensive than Columbia housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Maria or Columbia?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Maria is 9.8 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 Santa Maria?
Santa Maria, California is a vibrant city located in Santa Barbara County. From its stunning coastal landscape to its various cultural attractions, there's something for everyone in Santa Maria! Visitors can explore outdoor activities like Pismo Beach or takein some culture at places like the Allan Hancock College Museum of Natural History. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse sites like the Fremont Theater or the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Taqueria Don Beto or Mingos Mexican Restaurant. With so much to offer, Santa Maria makes for an unforgettable experience!

 Columbia, MDSanta Maria, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock109,309329,725,481
 Median Income$113,592  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$441,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock11.6%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 Santa Maria    12 Reviews

Over 6 years ago

I live in Orcutt which is a town of around 35,000 on the south side of Santa Maria. Santa Maria has, as everyone has noted, the best climate in the world. It never  More

   |    Reply

I have lived in Santa Maria / Orcutt for several years, but it is time to leave. I have no issues with the weather. Our climate is mild and comfortable with no extremes.  More

   |    Reply

The weather is very mild without a huge temperature change with the seasons. The winters are chilly but not cold and the summers are warm but not hot. Of course there  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Maria


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.