2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Novato, CA vs Arcata, CA

Are people in Arcata older or younger than people in Novato?
- The Median Age in Arcata is 21.2 years younger than in Novato.

Are housing costs cheaper in Arcata or Novato?
- Arcata housing costs are 57.8% less expensive than Novato housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Arcata or Novato?
- The average commute for residents of Arcata is 15.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Novato.

Things to do in Novato?
Novato, California is located in Marin County, just north of San Francisco. Novato is home to nearly 56,000 people and offers a mix of rural and urban attractions. Residents enjoy outdoor activities such as Mt. Burdell Open Space Preserve and the Novato Arts Center for its art galleries, plays, and music events. Novato also boasts several shopping destinations in addition to top-notch schools, hospitals and services. With its combination of small-town charm, big-city amenities and access to pristine natural beauty, Novato provides an excellent place to call home.

Things to do in Arcata?
Nestled on California’s North Coast just south of Eureka, Arcata offers visitors an array of natural beauty from redwood forests to rugged coastline along with world-class dining experiences like the Alice Copper Restaurant & Brewery. The city hosts a variety of cultural attractions year round from art galleries to live music venues making it a great destination for everyone.