2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Costa Mesa, CA vs Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Rancho Santa Margarita older or younger than people in Costa Mesa?
- The Median Age in Rancho Santa Margarita is 3.7 years older than in Costa Mesa.

Are housing costs cheaper in Rancho Santa Margarita or Costa Mesa?
- Rancho Santa Margarita housing costs are 21.4% less expensive than Costa Mesa housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Rancho Santa Margarita or Costa Mesa?
- The average commute for residents of Rancho Santa Margarita is 7.6 minutes longer than it is for residents of Costa Mesa.

Things to do in Costa Mesa?
Costa Mesa, California is an upscale beach-side city located in the Orange County region of Southern California. With its sunny days, mild winters, and beautiful beaches, Costa Mesa provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From world-class shopping malls to award-winning art galleries and top-notch dining options, there's something for everyone in this vibrant coastal town. For those looking for active outdoor pursuits, Costa Mesa offers plenty of parks, trails and other nature activities; whatever your interests may be - you're sure to find something to enjoy here!

Things to do in Rancho Santa Margarita?
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA resides within Orange County’s metropolitan limits providing direct access attractions events that take place surrounding area due its prime location as well population size close 48 thousand people makes perfect spot anyone looking exciting city life without having live too far from Los Angeles other Southern California cities!

 Costa Mesa, CARancho Santa Margarita, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock48,190329,725,481
 Median Income$96,391  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,097,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.45  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Costa Mesa    8 Reviews

Over 15 years ago

Costa mesa has awesome shopping but is way too crowded and I have had 3 cars stolen in the past 5 years along with countless break-ins and theft. Expensive. Close to  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

Costa Mesa has a near perfect climate . . . plenty of sun but rarely over 100 degrees (our house doesn't even have AC). Nestled between Newport Beach and Huntington  More

   |    Reply

We have a good amount of low-income, medium-income, and relatively high-income  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Costa Mesa

Reviews for Rancho Santa Margarita    13 Reviews

This page provides little information on RSM. I see they keep describing the area as "outside of Los Angeles." Culturally, it is so far from Los Angeles (I lived in LA,  More

   |    Reply

Over 10 years ago

The weather here is amazing. We get a few hot days in the summer but it cools down in the evening. I love being able to sleep with the windows  More

   |    Reply

This is the best place to live in South Orange County with mild temperatures, low crime, great schools and family orientated. RSM is a city that sits in a pocket backing  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Rancho Santa Margarita


Learn More About Rancho Santa Margarita, California
Overview
Cost of Living
Job Market
Crime
Climate
Economy
Religion
Voting
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.