2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Houston, TX vs Santa Barbara, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Barbara older or younger than people in Houston?
- The Median Age in Santa Barbara is 5.4 years older than in Houston.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Barbara or Houston?
- Santa Barbara housing costs are 515.4% more expensive than Houston housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Barbara or Houston?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Barbara is 9.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Houston.

Things to do in Houston?
Houston, Texas is a bustling city full of energy and opportunity. Boasting a diverse population, rich culture, world-class entertainment and endless adventures - Houston has something for everyone! From the awe inspiring views of downtown's skyline to the expansive bayous and swamps, there’s always something new to explore. With its rich food scene, vibrant nightlife and fascinating historical attractions - Houston is a truly unforgettable destination.

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.

 Houston, TXSanta Barbara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,132329,725,481
 Median Income$56,019  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$247,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time27  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Houston    371 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

I moved to Houston from the San Francisco Bay area in 1991 after college but I have always had family here. Houston is not what you think of when you think of Texas  More

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Over 3 years ago

There's definitely lots of jobs/economic opportunity. It's quite racially diverse if that's your thing. Houston has awful urban sprawl. Expect awful traffic. Hot as hell  More

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Over 3 years ago

There's definitely lots of jobs/economic opportunity. It's quite racially diverse if that's your thing. Houston has awful urban sprawl. Expect awful traffic. Hot as hell  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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