2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Cortez, CO vs Big Bear Lake, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Big Bear Lake older or younger than people in Cortez?
- The Median Age in Big Bear Lake is 7.4 years older than in Cortez.

Are housing costs cheaper in Big Bear Lake or Cortez?
- Big Bear Lake housing costs are 111.9% more expensive than Cortez housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Big Bear Lake or Cortez?
- The average commute for residents of Big Bear Lake is 12.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Cortez.

Things to do in Cortez?
Living in Cortez, CO is an incredible experience. From the stunning views of the red rock mesas and snow-capped mountains to the small-town community feel, this area offers something for everyone. With plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy like fishing, camping, horseback riding, and rock climbing, it's a great place to spend time outdoors. The town also boasts a number of historic sites such as Hovenweep National Monument, Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, and Mesa Verde National Park. With so much to do and explore in and around Cortez, it's no wonder why so many choose to call it home!

Things to do in Big Bear Lake?
Living in Big Bear Lake, CA is like a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts. From the breathtaking scenery of the San Bernardino National Forest to the crystal clear waters of the lake itself, it's easy to understand why so many people choose to call this place home. The area is filled with activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, kayaking and swimming that are perfect for all ages. During the summer months, visitors can take advantage of warmer climates to enjoy festivals and events like Music in the Mountains and Oktoberfest. With its unique blend of mountain town charm and year-round outdoor activities, Big Bear Lake is definitely a place worth visiting!

 Cortez, COBig Bear Lake, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock5,068329,725,481
 Median Income$51,924  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock45.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$276,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.76  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Cortez    6 Reviews

A digital nomad / nature lover's sunny, perfect weather paradise, at half the cost of touristy Durango. Cortez is Colorado's under-the-radar town that's mostly only  More

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I moved out to Cortez, Colorado after a 30 day trip around the US. Of all the places I visited, this was the place I deemed best to move for a multitude of reasons. It  More

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I've live on this area and cannot recommend it to anyone. Cortez and Montezuma county are horrible. School are bad. After meeting several local teachers I am surprised  More

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Reviews for Big Bear Lake    5 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

We moved to Big Bear Lake a couple of years ago from Los Angeles because of my husband's job. It is a somewhat pretty city, the lake is mirky and surrounded by trash,  More

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Over 15 years ago

Big Bear Lake, a beautiful setting in a remote mountain community in Southern California. A draw to tourists from the Los Angeles area for skiing, boating, and mountain  More

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In the San Bernardino mountains of Southern California, this little town has almost everything you would want to see and do. In the spring and summer the lake is filled  More

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