2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Fort Lauderdale, FL vs Santa Monica, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Monica older or younger than people in Fort Lauderdale?
- The Median Age in Santa Monica is 1.5 years younger than in Fort Lauderdale.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Monica or Fort Lauderdale?
- Santa Monica housing costs are 218.0% more expensive than Fort Lauderdale housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Monica or Fort Lauderdale?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Monica is 0.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Fort Lauderdale.

Things to do in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale, Florida is an exciting destination, boasting beautiful beaches and plenty of attractions. Visitors can explore the Everglades National Park or take a boat ride through Intracoastal Waterway. There's something for everyone - from stunning art galleries and museums to trendy restaurants and nightlife spots. For those who prefer outdoors activities, there's always fishing, surfing, kayaking or paddle boarding nearby. With so much to do and see, Fort Lauderdale makes for an unforgettable experience!

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!

 Fort Lauderdale, FLSanta Monica, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock92,828329,725,481
 Median Income$66,994  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$521,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.43  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Fort Lauderdale    64 Reviews

Fort Lauderdale and South Florida are eclectic, which makes for a tough adjustment if you're from a homogenous area. The secret is to find the location of all the things  More

   |    Reply

Like any city, Fort Lauderdale has it's good points and it's bad. On the good side you can't beat the weather here, especially October to June. No snow and no winter  More

   |    Reply

Over 10 years ago

My husband I are are from Illinois and Indiana. We moved here five years ago and we still HATE it! In the Midwest people are friendly and care about others. I can't  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Fort Lauderdale

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.