2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Merced, CA vs Sparks, NV

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Highlights
Are people in Sparks older or younger than people in Merced?
- The Median Age in Sparks is 8.1 years older than in Merced.

Are housing costs cheaper in Sparks or Merced?
- Sparks housing costs are 25.8% more expensive than Merced housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Sparks or Merced?
- The average commute for residents of Sparks is 1.8 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 Sparks?
Sparks, Nevada is a vibrant city located in Washoe County. From its breathtaking views to its many cultural attractions, Sparks has something for everyone! Outdoor activities like the Sparks Marina Park and Wild Island Splash Pad will keep visitors entertained all day long. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like the Glendale Schoolhouse Museum or the Nevada State Railroad Museum. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like The Brew Brothers or Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas. With so much to offer, Sparks is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

 Merced, CASparks, NVUnited States
 Population  Unlock106,900329,725,481
 Median Income$52,305  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$373,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.7%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 Sparks    14 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

Nice place to live. Lots of events, recreation, and  More

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LOVE it! Fifth generation Reno/Sparks native. Paternal great grandparents born and raised in Reno. Sparks has an old fashioned home town feeling. I love Sparks! Great  More

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Over 17 years ago

Do not listen to the Californian. Sparks has all 4 seasons. It does snow here but the snow is very wet and melts quickly and it does not snow six months out of the year.  More

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