2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Gainesville, FL vs Bartow, FL

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Bartow older or younger than people in Gainesville?
- The Median Age in Bartow is 9.8 years older than in Gainesville.

Are housing costs cheaper in Bartow or Gainesville?
- Bartow housing costs are 9.6% less expensive than Gainesville housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Bartow or Gainesville?
- The average commute for residents of Bartow is 2.6 minutes longer than it is for residents of Gainesville.

Things to do in Gainesville?
Gainesville, Florida is a lively city in Alachua County. Home to the University of Florida, this city is known for its vibrant college town atmosphere. With plenty of shops and restaurants along bustling downtown streets and nearby outdoor activities like canoeing and kayaking at Paynes Prairie State Park, there's no shortage of things to do here. Gainesville also has great schools and universities, as well as several parks where visitors can take in the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking for an exciting night out or a peaceful afternoon in nature, Gainesville is sure to have something for everyone.

Things to do in Bartow?
Bartow is a city located in Polk County, Florida. With over 20,000 people calling it home, Bartow offers plenty of recreational activities and attractions to explore. The town has several parks and outdoor spaces providing the perfect setting for a nice picnic or an afternoon stroll. There are also several shopping and dining options available, not to mention a handful of museums and theaters for some cultural enrichment. Education-wise the city offers multiple public schools as well as higher education institutions making it an ideal spot for students. In short, Bartow provides something for everyone – from outdoor sports and entertainment to shopping and educational opportunities.

 Gainesville, FLBartow, FLUnited States
 Population  Unlock18,880329,725,481
 Median Income$40,937  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$271,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.71  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Gainesville    60 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

I've lived here most of my life. It's changed a lot, and a lot of the locals don't like it. Because it's home to one of the largest universities in the country, we see a  More

   |    Reply

Lovely diverse city! People is nice and there is always something to do. Outdoors activities are awesome! The springs are beautiful and there are plenty of hiking  More

   |    Reply

Gainesville has the highest taxes and electrical rates in the state. The city is run by a bunch of liberals who have no idea what they are doing. Crime and homelessness  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Gainesville

Reviews for Bartow    4 Reviews

I lived in Bartow for a year and a half before moving to Lakeland. The town seems so oppressed. The housing market is costly–$140,000 is the average price for a brick  More

   |    Reply

The city council in this town need to get a grip on reality and understand that they work for the people who pay their taxes. The city ordinance that prevents property  More

   |    Reply

I find the city ordinance that does not allow homeowners to place small signs in their yards stating essentially "god bless the USA" utterly ridiculous. As a proud  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Bartow


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.