2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Marina, CA vs Imperial Beach, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Imperial Beach older or younger than people in Marina?
- The Median Age in Imperial Beach is 1.5 years younger than in Marina.

Are housing costs cheaper in Imperial Beach or Marina?
- Imperial Beach housing costs are 0.7% more expensive than Marina housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Imperial Beach or Marina?
- The average commute for residents of Imperial Beach is 3.5 minutes longer 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 Imperial Beach?
Imperial Beach, CA is a beachfront community located in San Diego County. It’s known for its year-round sunny climate and picturesque waterfront, allowing visitors to enjoy activities like surfing and swimming in the warm Pacific Ocean. The city also offers a variety of restaurants and shops along its boardwalk, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists alike.

 Marina, CAImperial Beach, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock26,375329,725,481
 Median Income$78,795  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock33.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$798,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.9%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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Marina

Reviews for Imperial Beach    5 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

In my opinion, imperial beach is the best place to live. IB is the perfect place to raise a family. It has the perfect amount of the good and the bad.  More

   |    Reply

My wife and I moved here from Chula Vista, CA before we knew she was pregnant, attracted by the opportunity to live right near the ocean; in a small, albeit somewhat  More

   |    Reply

Over 19 years ago

Come live in San Diego's most affordable beach community...Imperial  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Imperial Beach


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.