2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Gainesville, FL vs Santa Barbara, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Barbara older or younger than people in Gainesville?
- The Median Age in Santa Barbara is 12.3 years older than in Gainesville.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Barbara or Gainesville?
- Santa Barbara housing costs are 461.5% more expensive than Gainesville housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Barbara or Gainesville?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Barbara is 0.6 minutes shorter 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 Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara, California has something for everyone - from fantastic beaches to world-class shopping and dining experiences. Visitors can explore Old Mission Santa Barbara or take part in various water activities around Stearns Wharf.

 Gainesville, FLSanta Barbara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,132329,725,481
 Median Income$40,937  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$271,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%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

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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

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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

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Reviews for Santa Barbara    51 Reviews

I moved to Santa Barbara around 23 years ago to study at Brooks, which like most of the Santa Barbara that I knew—has been destroyed. Homelessness, drugs, gangs, high  More

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Over 4 years ago

I fell in love with Santa Barbara about thirty years ago and finally moved here a few years ago. Because of the price of homes, it is an expensive place to live. The  More

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If you like high crime, paying a $4,500 a month mortgage and crazy high taxes, this is the place for you. It’s too bad because it wasn’t always like this. When I moved  More

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