2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Oceanside, CA vs Santa Barbara, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Barbara older or younger than people in Oceanside?
- The Median Age in Santa Barbara is 2.0 years older than in Oceanside.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Barbara or Oceanside?
- Santa Barbara housing costs are 94.1% more expensive than Oceanside housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Barbara or Oceanside?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Barbara is 11.1 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Oceanside.

Things to do in Oceanside?
Oceanside, California is a beachfront city located in San Diego County. With miles of white sand and crystal blue waters, it is an excellent destination for those looking to relax and soak up some sun. The area also has numerous attractions such as the Oceanside Pier and Harbor Beach, as well as popular restaurants that offer fresh seafood. History buffs can explore the historical sites like the Mission San Luis Rey de Francia or visit the California Surf Museum to learn more about local surf culture. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of various activities such as surfing, kayaking and even whale watching! With so much to offer, Oceanside provides a perfect getaway for any season!

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.

 Oceanside, CASanta Barbara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,132329,725,481
 Median Income$80,837  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$786,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time28.22  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Oceanside    20 Reviews

Over 6 years ago

I've lived in here since 1988, left in 1995 and came back in 2005. I will always love Oceanside. You have to come check it out. It has changed so drastically and there  More

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Over 7 years ago

from oceanside ca love the city always love the beach life u can't get anywhere else yes... it has been cleaned up and welcomes people from all over . I miss my  More

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Moved to O'Side Nov 1988 (Lived there from 78 thru 79 prior to moving back in 88). 78-1979 was a Fun, Good, Relaxing Time to Live in O'Side- Low Crime Rate, Low  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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