2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Highlands Ranch, CO vs Santa Maria, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Maria older or younger than people in Highlands Ranch?
- The Median Age in Santa Maria is 11.1 years younger than in Highlands Ranch.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Maria or Highlands Ranch?
- Santa Maria housing costs are 20.4% less expensive than Highlands Ranch housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Maria or Highlands Ranch?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Maria is 5.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Highlands Ranch.

Things to do in Highlands Ranch?
Highlands Ranch, Colorado is an ever-growing community located just outside of Denver. From its entertainment and recreation options to its many local attractions, there's something for everyone in Highlands Ranch! Visitors can explore outdoor activities like the Bluffs Regional Park or go shopping at places like the Outlets at Castle Rock. Plus, those looking for educational experiences can visit places like The Wildlife Experience Museum or Paint Mines Interpretive Park. And after having their fill of activities, visitors can grab a bite at restaurants like 801 Chophouse or Palenque Mexican Grill & Margarita Bar. With so much to offer, Highlands Ranch is a great destination for an unforgettable experience!

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!

 Highlands Ranch, COSanta Maria, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock109,309329,725,481
 Median Income$134,041  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$709,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock11.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.03  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Highlands Ranch    20 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

I was born and raised in Highlands Ranch and I know what you’re thinking. “This is a rich girl.” I am not. My parents moved here before it became rich and boujie and the  More

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Worked in the DTC and HR was an easy commute. The people are yuppy- scum-snobs, who do not thank you for holding the door open for their 3+ children, noses held high in  More

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Over 11 years ago

When we moved here from Denver, about 2.5 yrs ago, I did note the affluence, lack of diversity (compared to Denver) and seeming Stepford Wives phenomenon. It is all  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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