2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Merced, CA vs Fresno, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Fresno older or younger than people in Merced?
- The Median Age in Fresno is 2.1 years older than in Merced.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fresno or Merced?
- Fresno housing costs are 3.6% less expensive than Merced housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fresno or Merced?
- The average commute for residents of Fresno is 1.9 minutes shorter 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 Fresno?
Fresno, California is a great destination for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Spend the day exploring the Forestiere Underground Gardens or pay a visit to nearby Millerton Lake. Enjoy some shopping and dining in Old Town Clovis or take in some of the city's art and culture with a trip to the Fresno Art Museum. For those looking for outdoor recreation, Woodward Park offers bike trails, camping sites, and disc golf courses. Whether you're looking for unique attractions or just an escape from city life, Fresno has something for everyone!

 Merced, CAFresno, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock538,678329,725,481
 Median Income$52,305  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$373,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Merced

Reviews for Fresno    77 Reviews

I'm not gonna say this city is terrible, but it certainly has many issues that need to be taken care of and unfortunately the city council has done a poor job keeping up  More

   |    Reply

I've lived in Fresno my entire life and when I became an adult, I began to realize how much being a resident here really sucks, it might be cheaper than most other  More

   |    Reply

Lived here since 2002. I may be flamed for this, but.. total dump and I would rate 0 stars if I could. You only really move here to move out. As good as a gas stop.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Fresno


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.