2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Marina, CA vs Arcata, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Arcata older or younger than people in Marina?
- The Median Age in Arcata is 8.0 years younger than in Marina.

Are housing costs cheaper in Arcata or Marina?
- Arcata housing costs are 44.4% less expensive than Marina housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Arcata or Marina?
- The average commute for residents of Arcata is 6.4 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Marina.

Things to do in Marina?
Marina is a small coastal city located in the San Francisco Bay Area of California. It's just north of Monterey and Carmel, close to where the famous 17 Mile Drive winds its way along the Pacific coast. With a population of almost 20,000 people, Marina has a relaxed vibe and beautiful scenery, making it perfect for eco-tourism. Activities range from kayaking and whale watching to hiking trails and outdoor activities. The Marina State Beach offers great views and elegant picnicking experiences, while nearby military installations such as Fort Ord provide interesting historical tours and educational opportunities. Marina is one of California’s hidden gems – an undiscovered paradise waiting to be explored!

Things to do in Arcata?
Nestled on California’s North Coast just south of Eureka, Arcata offers visitors an array of natural beauty from redwood forests to rugged coastline along with world-class dining experiences like the Alice Copper Restaurant & Brewery. The city hosts a variety of cultural attractions year round from art galleries to live music venues making it a great destination for everyone.

 Marina, CAArcata, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock19,038329,725,481
 Median Income$78,795  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock26.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$798,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.41  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Marina    4 Reviews

I've lived in Marina for the last 15 years. It is a gray place with old dated looking buildings, no real main street, and is the domain of the slum lord, and the mini  More

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Old Fort Ord is the only affordable housing on the Monterey Peninsula. It's frequently colder here than it was in Oregon. There is finally some local public  More

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Over 18 years ago

I find it funny when I lived here from '91-'01 there were hardly any stores new homes being build to justify staying. Then as soon as I move the city finally starts  More

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Reviews for Arcata    17 Reviews

Pros: Nature hikes Cons: One of highest crime rates in the nation. Opioid epidemic going on (you’ll regularly witness drug deals and ppl doing drugs) No  More

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It takes a special set of preferences to select Arcata. Is this you? - You love clouds and fog. You are happy if you see the sun maybe 10-20 times a year. - Chilly  More

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Over 11 years ago

I've lived in Humboldt for over 30 yrs and know all the areas well. Arcata is the jewel of Humboldt due to having a university and many liberal creative people. There is  More

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