2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Grass Valley, CA vs Santa Maria, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Maria older or younger than people in Grass Valley?
- The Median Age in Santa Maria is 17.8 years younger than in Grass Valley.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Maria or Grass Valley?
- Santa Maria housing costs are 13.6% more expensive than Grass Valley housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Maria or Grass Valley?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Maria is 5.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Grass Valley.

Things to do in Grass Valley?
Grass Valley is an independent township situated within Nevada County, California boasting plenty of activities like visiting its local museums like the Lake Spaulding Powerhouse suitable for anyone interested in the area's history plus nearby Empire Mine State Historic Park has various events and exhibits conveniently situated close by. There are also lots of shopping outlets and eateries providing unique items or delicious cuisine good for anyone looking to browse around or have a meal out during their visit here!

Things to do in Santa Maria?
Santa Maria, California is a vibrant city located in Santa Barbara County. From its stunning coastal landscape to its various cultural attractions, there's something for everyone in Santa Maria! Visitors can explore outdoor activities like Pismo Beach or takein some culture at places like the Allan Hancock College Museum of Natural History. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse sites like the Fremont Theater or the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Taqueria Don Beto or Mingos Mexican Restaurant. With so much to offer, Santa Maria makes for an unforgettable experience!

 Grass Valley, CASanta Maria, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock109,309329,725,481
 Median Income$44,906  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$497,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock11.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time14.9  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Grass Valley    15 Reviews

I've lived many places in California. I've now lived in Grass Valley for 2 years. Grass Valley and it's sister Nevada City are adorable little towns full of history and  More

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Grass valley has become a sad place to live. I was born and raised here and can no longer afford to raise my small family here. Look up the median annual wage and the  More

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I'm 25 years old and I've lived in this town all of my life, and I'm saving every single dollar I make to leave here and never come back. It's a shame, because at one  More

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Reviews for Santa Maria    12 Reviews

Over 6 years ago

I live in Orcutt which is a town of around 35,000 on the south side of Santa Maria. Santa Maria has, as everyone has noted, the best climate in the world. It never  More

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I have lived in Santa Maria / Orcutt for several years, but it is time to leave. I have no issues with the weather. Our climate is mild and comfortable with no extremes.  More

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The weather is very mild without a huge temperature change with the seasons. The winters are chilly but not cold and the summers are warm but not hot. Of course there  More

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