2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Destin, FL vs Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Carmel-by-the-Sea older or younger than people in Destin?
- The Median Age in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 20.3 years older than in Destin.

Are housing costs cheaper in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Destin?
- Carmel-by-the-Sea housing costs are 216.6% more expensive than Destin housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Destin?
- The average commute for residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea is 1.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Destin.

Things to do in Destin?
Destin, FL is an incorporated city located in Okaloosa County south-west from Cinco Bayou inhabited by close to twelve thousand persons. Destin gives its citizens plenty of venues like the Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park granting people with the perfect opportunity to experience nature through different activities on a stop here! Moreover there are numerous restaurants and stores available making it with something special anytime they visit.

Things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Living in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is like living in paradise. With its beautiful white sand beaches, stunning ocean views, and colorful gardens, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this picturesque city. Its unique shops, restaurants and galleries provide visitors with a unique shopping experience while its numerous parks and trails offer plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. The climate is mild year round, making it the perfect spot for vacationers or those looking for a permanent home. The quaint downtown area of Carmel-by-the-Sea provides a relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of the most desirable places to live on the Central Coast.

 Destin, FLCarmel-by-the-Sea, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock3,296329,725,481
 Median Income$81,827  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock63.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$605,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.34  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Destin    14 Reviews

I find it amazing the place is rated one star - Yes the cost of housing is high especially as covid pushed more people to Florida. But living here is easy - three  More

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This tiny town is SO expensive. Unless you want a roach and mold infested place you will have to pay around $1800 or more and the “nice” places have reviews that scare  More

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I moved to Destin in 1987 when there was no development in the eastern part of town, only trees, beaches and a two lane road. I worked as a Sheriff's Deputy for over 30  More

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Reviews for Carmel-By-The-Sea    3 Reviews

Over 10 years ago

Climate, cost &  More

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carmel has about 60 vacation homes and a dense cottage-y downtown. basically it is a tourist trap cental business district and a bunch of vacation rental homes. the  More

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Over 18 years ago

Liberals have run me out of town. The political is so overwhelming I am looking to relocate. However, if you are an aging hippie with a great deal of money you will be  More

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