2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Lake Forest, CA vs San Marcos, CA

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Highlights
Are people in San Marcos older or younger than people in Lake Forest?
- The Median Age in San Marcos is 4.5 years younger than in Lake Forest.

Are housing costs cheaper in San Marcos or Lake Forest?
- San Marcos housing costs are 13.2% less expensive than Lake Forest housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, San Marcos or Lake Forest?
- The average commute for residents of San Marcos is 0.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Lake Forest.

Things to do in Lake Forest?
Lake Forest, California markets itself as the ultimate Southern California lifestyle with numerous parks, shopping centers, and miles of trails giving visitors plenty of options for an active lifestyle.

Things to do in San Marcos?
San Marcos, California is an amazing city located in northern San Diego County. It's known for its picturesque mountain backdrop, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can take advantage of outdoor activities like exploring Lake San Marcos or enjoying a day at Walnut Grove Park to explore the local area. History buffs can visit places like Old Mission San Luis Rey Church or César E. Chávez Recreation Area to gain insight into local history. After exploring, sample delicious food from restaurants like Turf Grill & Sports Bar or Sushi Ryu. With so much to offer, San Marcos is an ideal destination for an unforgettable experience!

 Lake Forest, CASan Marcos, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock94,313329,725,481
 Median Income$117,374  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$937,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Lake Forest    16 Reviews

I've lived in Lake Forest for over a decade, before that elsewhere in OC and also up in LA. Lake Forest isn't perfect but it's really improved over the past decade,  More

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As a retired senior who has lived in Lake Forest (formerly El Toro) since 1977 I think LF is a great place if you can afford it. When we moved here in June '77 homes  More

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I’ve lived here for 2 years. Ok, it’s more like a 4 but there are so many idiots downplaying what it’s like here and giving Lake Forest ones and twos. There are a lot of  More

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Reviews for San Marcos    5 Reviews

Just an amazing place to live. I have lived in 7 states and almost countless cities. Sam Marcos is one of the best. This is literally the longest place I have lived  More

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Over 15 years ago

Is this area to expensive for the average income retired  More

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Over 18 years ago

Beautiful Mediterranean climate with bright sunshine and ocean breazes. City is just 15 minutes away from the  More

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