2025 Compare Cities Overview:
El Cajon, CA vs Costa Mesa, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Costa Mesa older or younger than people in El Cajon?
- The Median Age in Costa Mesa is 1.2 years older than in El Cajon.

Are housing costs cheaper in Costa Mesa or El Cajon?
- Costa Mesa housing costs are 50.9% more expensive than El Cajon housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Costa Mesa or El Cajon?
- The average commute for residents of Costa Mesa is 4.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of El Cajon.

Things to do in El Cajon?
El Cajon, California is a vibrant city located in San Diego County. From its breathtaking views to its many cultural attractions, El Cajon has something for everyone! Outdoor activities like the Los Coches Creek Park and Boomers El Cajon will keep visitors entertained all day long. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like the East County Performing Arts Center or the Ronald Hammond Interpretive Center. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Haru Ramen Bar or Bottles & Barrels. With so much to offer, El Cajon is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

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!

 El Cajon, CACosta Mesa, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock112,148329,725,481
 Median Income$58,193  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3638.4
 Avg. Home Price$727,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.75  Unlock26.38
Reviews for El Cajon    10 Reviews

Stay out of East El Cajon. The people that live there don't like  More

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Housing less expensive then San Diego, wages the same. A total package of people from different backgrounds (ethnic) which is  More

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El Cajon and La Mesa are about a dozen miles east of the Pacific Ocean. Fletcher Hills, in particular, is a community within El Cajon on the boarder of La Mesa/Mt.  More

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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

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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

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

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