2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Fairbanks, AK vs Arcata, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Arcata older or younger than people in Fairbanks?
- The Median Age in Arcata is 1.3 years younger than in Fairbanks.

Are housing costs cheaper in Arcata or Fairbanks?
- Arcata housing costs are 61.2% more expensive than Fairbanks housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Arcata or Fairbanks?
- The average commute for residents of Arcata is 4.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Fairbanks.

Things to do in Fairbanks?
Fairbanks AK rests close Arctic Circle famed principally for its natural sites such as Chena River State Recreation Area where visitors may take part in different water sports or simply enjoy some peace & tranquility while walking along sandy beaches!

Things to do in Arcata?
Nestled on California’s North Coast just south of Eureka, Arcata offers visitors an array of natural beauty from redwood forests to rugged coastline along with world-class dining experiences like the Alice Copper Restaurant & Brewery. The city hosts a variety of cultural attractions year round from art galleries to live music venues making it a great destination for everyone.

 Fairbanks, AKArcata, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock19,038329,725,481
 Median Income$66,572  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock26.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$275,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time12.94  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Fairbanks    20 Reviews

I have lived in the Fairbanks area for about 25 years and have become very comfortable with the community and the lifestyle here. That said, retirement is fast  More

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Over 14 years ago

Comments about Fairbanks, both positive and negative, are of interest to me. Was in Fairbanks this past March [and north on Cleary Summit] and fell in love with the  More

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Over 15 years ago

I came to Alaska 15 years ago on an adventure and first lived in Juneau, which I LOVED and then moved to Eagle River, which I loved and now live in Fairbanks! I do not  More

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Reviews for Arcata    17 Reviews

Pros: Nature hikes Cons: One of highest crime rates in the nation. Opioid epidemic going on (you’ll regularly witness drug deals and ppl doing drugs) No  More

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It takes a special set of preferences to select Arcata. Is this you? - You love clouds and fog. You are happy if you see the sun maybe 10-20 times a year. - Chilly  More

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Over 11 years ago

I've lived in Humboldt for over 30 yrs and know all the areas well. Arcata is the jewel of Humboldt due to having a university and many liberal creative people. There is  More

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