2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ocean City, NJ vs Santa Barbara, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Barbara older or younger than people in Ocean City?
- The Median Age in Santa Barbara is 17.2 years younger than in Ocean City.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Barbara or Ocean City?
- Santa Barbara housing costs are 79.6% more expensive than Ocean City housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Barbara or Ocean City?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Barbara is 10.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Ocean City.

Things to do in Ocean City?
Ocean City, NJ is a vibrant beach town located on the Jersey Shore. Stretching for 8 miles along the coastline, Ocean City offers scenic beaches filled with sunbathers and surfers alike. The iconic Boardwalk is packed with family-friendly attractions and activities such as mini golf, arcades, rides, and more. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. Whether it's relaxing at the beach or strolling along the Boardwalk, Ocean City has something for everyone!

Things to do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara, California has something for everyone - from fantastic beaches to world-class shopping and dining experiences. Visitors can explore Old Mission Santa Barbara or take part in various water activities around Stearns Wharf.

 Ocean City, NJSanta Barbara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,132329,725,481
 Median Income$88,414  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$849,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time27.31  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ocean City    3 Reviews

Over 15 years ago

I've spent many summers in OC since the 1970s. It's a wonderful family town...a dry town! No alcohol sales, no bars! Long boardwalk with 2 amusement parks, a water  More

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I adore OC. I live 6 blocks from the beach, 2 from the bay. Beautiful scenery. Peaceful surroundings. Summer resort time is a little hectic, but fun. Winters are  More

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Over 19 years ago

I have summered or lived in Ocean City, NJ since I was born 41 years ago. Change, change, change is the common theme in this city. One constant is safe, family fun! The  More

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Reviews for Santa Barbara    51 Reviews

I moved to Santa Barbara around 23 years ago to study at Brooks, which like most of the Santa Barbara that I knew—has been destroyed. Homelessness, drugs, gangs, high  More

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Over 4 years ago

I fell in love with Santa Barbara about thirty years ago and finally moved here a few years ago. Because of the price of homes, it is an expensive place to live. The  More

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If you like high crime, paying a $4,500 a month mortgage and crazy high taxes, this is the place for you. It’s too bad because it wasn’t always like this. When I moved  More

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