2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Northampton, MA vs Oakland, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Oakland older or younger than people in Northampton?
- The Median Age in Oakland is 4.1 years younger than in Northampton.

Are housing costs cheaper in Oakland or Northampton?
- Oakland housing costs are 103.7% more expensive than Northampton housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Oakland or Northampton?
- The average commute for residents of Oakland is 10.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Northampton.

Things to do in Northampton?
Northampton, MA lies on the banks of the Connecticut River on beautiful Paradise Pond—known locally as “The Valley”—and provides access to hiking trails through Mount Tom State Reservation or kayaking down the river’s rapids in downtown Northampton State Park .

Things to do in Oakland?
Oakland, California is the vibrant city at the heart of the Bay Area. With its beautiful parks and nature preserves, lively nightlife scene, and booming arts and music scene, there’s something for everyone in this diverse and thriving city. Visitors can explore historical landmarks like Jack London Square or take a stroll through Chinatown. The city also offers plenty of outdoor activities including kayaking on Lake Merritt or hiking through Redwood Regional Park. With its bustling atmosphere, great cultural attractions and countless outdoor experiences to choose from, Oakland is sure to make any visit an unforgettable one!

 Northampton, MAOakland, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock437,548329,725,481
 Median Income$72,687  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$402,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.55  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Northampton    6 Reviews

I was born in Northampton in the 1960"s and have lived other places but always came back to live here. My two children were born here too. What draws be back to  More

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The greater Northampton, MA area is generally a pretty good place to live, if you're interested in Western MA or southern New England in general. MA is more affordable  More

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Northampton is a very progressive, diverse, liberal small city where you will find so much to do in just the downtown area alone. Music, shopping, restaurants, bars,  More

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Reviews for Oakland    38 Reviews

I move to Oakland 20yrs ago with high hopes, loved the geography of the city, the diversity is outstanding, and the charm of the older homes is wonderful. When I  More

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Over 4 years ago

Fun place to visit. Little rough is some areas- a lot to do  More

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I moved to Oakland because of its racial diversity in the early eighties although I've seen some ups and downs in this visually beautiful city, it has never been as bad  More

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