2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Isla Vista, CA vs Santa Barbara, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Barbara older or younger than people in Isla Vista?
- The Median Age in Santa Barbara is 18.0 years older than in Isla Vista.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Barbara or Isla Vista?
- Santa Barbara housing costs are 2.4% more expensive than Isla Vista housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Barbara or Isla Vista?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Barbara is 3.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Isla Vista.

Things to do in Isla Vista?
Isla Vista, CA is an unincorporated community located in Santa Barbara County north of Los Angeles with an estimated population around 23 thousand people. Isla Vista has several beach parks along its waterfront such as Del Playa Beach perfect for sunbathing or swimming during the summertime! Additionally there are multiple restaurants and shopping spots available for locals or tourists looking for something to do during their stay.

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.

 Isla Vista, CASanta Barbara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,132329,725,481
 Median Income$22,386  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,489,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time13.23  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Isla Vista    0 Reviews

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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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