2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Dana Point, CA vs Santa Monica, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Monica older or younger than people in Dana Point?
- The Median Age in Santa Monica is 7.1 years younger than in Dana Point.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Monica or Dana Point?
- Santa Monica housing costs are 21.8% more expensive than Dana Point housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Monica or Dana Point?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Monica is 2.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Dana Point.

Things to do in Dana Point?
Dana Point CA is situated on Orange County’s beautiful coastline with miles of picturesque beaches perfect for scuba diving, surfing and other water sports.

Things to do in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica, California is a vibrant beach city located in Los Angeles County. This popular destination offers something for everyone, from world-class shopping and dining to outdoor activities like surfing and biking along the beachside path. Cultural attractions like the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium and the nearby Getty Villa make it easy to explore the area's history and art. Nightlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the countless bars, nightclubs, and lounges scattered throughout town. With its many attractions and activities, Santa Monica is sure to make your vacation unforgettable!

 Dana Point, CASanta Monica, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock92,828329,725,481
 Median Income$111,132  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,359,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time29.06  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Dana Point    8 Reviews

Over 11 years ago

Climate is one of the world's  More

   |    Reply

Nice place to live. Mediterranean climate. Too many people, high cost of living, California taxes high. Ocean is  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

We are in the California Riviera...but there's a price! This is a great place to  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Dana Point

Reviews for Santa Monica    24 Reviews

I moved here to Santa Monica over 10 years ago from Oklahoma City. I was surprised to see that Oklahoma City was ranked higher than Santa Monica on best places. I  More

   |    Reply

I've lived in Santa Monica for over 30 years. It's a Mediterranean climate--sunny and temperate when the rest of the country is under snow! I am walking distance to  More

   |    Reply

I have lived in this city for 4 decades, and it is never been worse than it is now. It is a dangerous disgusting hell hole. Between the crime, the homeless that are not  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Monica


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.