2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Monterey, CA vs San Marcos, TX

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in San Marcos older or younger than people in Monterey?
- The Median Age in San Marcos is 12.5 years younger than in Monterey.

Are housing costs cheaper in San Marcos or Monterey?
- San Marcos housing costs are 67.2% less expensive than Monterey housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, San Marcos or Monterey?
- The average commute for residents of San Marcos is 6.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Monterey.

Things to do in Monterey?
Monterey, CA is an iconic beach city located on the Monterey Peninsula of California's central coast. This picturesque coastal community offers stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, fabulous restaurants and galleries, plus numerous other recreational activities.

Things to do in San Marcos?
San Marcos, Texas is a vibrant city located in the heart of Hays County. This welcoming community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the Wonder World Cave or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Rio Vista Park, Aquarena Springs and Purgatory Creek Natural Area. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make San Marcos their home.

 Monterey, CASan Marcos, TXUnited States
 Population  Unlock64,812329,725,481
 Median Income$85,365  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock24.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,022,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.25  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Monterey    21 Reviews

Over 8 years ago

The Monterey city area is an excellent place to live and one of the few California locales where it's relatively safe to raise a family. If I could no longer live here I  More

   |    Reply

I grew up on the Monterey Peninsula and had to leave to climb out of poverty. The median income is $35,000 and outside of the military, the jobs are mostly service  More

   |    Reply

My husband and I are just crazy about Monterey. I wonder if we take housing expenses (mortgage or rent) out of the picture, is Monterey still a very expensive city to  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Monterey

Reviews for San Marcos    6 Reviews

An area with so much potential and existing natural beauty.Sadly bad urban planning is clearly obvious.Looks like fun for tens of thousands of students.However for the  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

San Marcos has the most beautiful people and places that I have ever seen throughout my travels. I love this city so much that I decided to settle down here and start a  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

I spent several summers and a couple winters in San Marcos during my formidable years and really have to tell those interested about what a nice town it is. The best  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of San Marcos


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.