2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Joshua Tree, CA vs Santa Maria, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Maria older or younger than people in Joshua Tree?
- The Median Age in Santa Maria is 11.0 years younger than in Joshua Tree.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Maria or Joshua Tree?
- Santa Maria housing costs are 33.1% more expensive than Joshua Tree housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Maria or Joshua Tree?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Maria is 11.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Joshua Tree.

Things to do in Joshua Tree?
Living in Joshua Tree, CA is an experience like no other. The desert landscape provides an idyllic setting of open skies, rocky terrain, and endless sunsets that create a feeling of serenity and beauty. With plenty of outdoor activities such as rock climbing, camping, hiking, biking, and even stargazing available all year round, Joshua Tree is truly a great place to explore the outdoors. The town itself is also full of eclectic shops and restaurants that add to the unique charm of the area. Despite being located in the middle of the desert, Joshua Tree enjoys relatively mild weather year-round making it a great place for those who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

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!

 Joshua Tree, CASanta Maria, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock109,309329,725,481
 Median Income$47,944  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$424,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock11.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time32.64  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Joshua Tree    3 Reviews

1973 - 1987 Like any small town certain families have more pull. This was the case for what seem to even narrow more down to schools like Salazar & Dubose. It seemed  More

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went to crossroads, a local restaurant in town, and ran across some folks who are relocating to joshua tree from south carolina. they were in town to go to the art  More

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Just 45 minutes from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree is 10 to 15 degrees cooler than the low desert, and is the gateway to Joshua Tree National Park. The city itself it tiny,  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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