2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Merced, CA vs Penn Valley, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Penn Valley older or younger than people in Merced?
- The Median Age in Penn Valley is 28.1 years older than in Merced.

Are housing costs cheaper in Penn Valley or Merced?
- Penn Valley housing costs are 35.6% more expensive than Merced housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Penn Valley or Merced?
- The average commute for residents of Penn Valley is 0.9 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 Penn Valley?
Living in Penn Valley, CA is a dream come true for many people. The small town has a quaint, rural charm that many find inviting. Despite its size, there are plenty of amenities available including shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The natural beauty of the area is quite stunning with its rolling hills, lush green pastures, and crystal clear lakes. Residents enjoy the mild weather year-round with light breezes in the summertime and cooler temperatures in the winter months. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to take part in such as hiking, biking, camping and fishing. With such an inviting atmosphere and friendly locals, it's no wonder Penn Valley is a popular place to call home.

 Merced, CAPenn Valley, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock1,124329,725,481
 Median Income$52,305  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock57.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$373,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.1%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 Penn Valley    1 Reviews

Over 18 years ago

I lived in Penn Valley for 8 years and found it offered numerous positive attributes. Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Penn Valley is above  More

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