2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Merced, CA vs Catalina, AZ

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Highlights
Are people in Catalina older or younger than people in Merced?
- The Median Age in Catalina is 25.6 years older than in Merced.

Are housing costs cheaper in Catalina or Merced?
- Catalina housing costs are 1.2% more expensive than Merced housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Catalina or Merced?
- The average commute for residents of Catalina is 7.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Merced.

Things to do in Merced?
Merced, California is a mid-sized city located in Central Valley known for its proximity to Yosemite National Park or Lake Yosemite making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation.

Things to do in Catalina?
Living in Catalina, AZ is a truly unique experience. Nestled among the rolling hills of the desert, the town offers a quiet atmosphere with incredible views. The local community has been around for generations and is filled with friendly people who are passionate about their heritage. In addition to its breathtaking scenery, Catalina boasts several outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking trails, camping sites, and bird watching. With easy access to nearby Tucson, AZ and its many attractions, Catalina is an ideal spot for those looking for some peace and quiet while still having plenty of entertainment options at their fingertips.

 Merced, CACatalina, AZUnited States
 Population  Unlock6,472329,725,481
 Median Income$52,305  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock55.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$373,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.56  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Merced    44 Reviews

Merced is totally slept on - you want a little bit of everything CA has to offer, at a fraction of the price of other CA cities? Merced is the place to go. The town  More

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Over 5 years ago

Good place to live. More affordable than most of california. The city is growing and there is alot of business and growth here. Moved from the Bay area years ago and  More

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Great place to live. Lots of progress and changes coming to the city. Great place to raise a family. UC Merced is expanding and businesses are investing. Downtown is  More

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Reviews for Catalina    3 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

The Catlaina area (Saddlebrook / Oro Valley) was wonderful back in the 1970's and 1980's. As is typical with AZ, Developers ruined the community and problems are a  More

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Over 18 years ago

Deeply regret moving here 10 yrs ago. Cost of living is high, over-inflated housing/rental market, traffic is horrible, pay is extremely low. Great place to golf  More

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Over 18 years ago

We live on the north side of the Catalina Mtns. close to Tucson but not so close that we have to endure the smog. Congestion is becoming a part of life out here as  More

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