2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Palo Alto, CA vs Santa Maria, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Maria older or younger than people in Palo Alto?
- The Median Age in Santa Maria is 12.6 years younger than in Palo Alto.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Maria or Palo Alto?
- Santa Maria housing costs are 81.8% less expensive than Palo Alto housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Maria or Palo Alto?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Maria is 3.4 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Palo Alto.

Things to do in Palo Alto?
Palo Alto, California is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley. Home to Stanford University and various tech giants such as Google, Apple, and Facebook, it has long been known as the epicenter for cutting-edge technology and innovative thinking. Residents here enjoy warm weather year round, excellent public schools, a thriving nightlife scene, plus vast amounts of green space perfect for hiking, biking or horseback riding. There's also no shortage of culture with world class museums and galleries showcasing some of the area’s most celebrated artworks. With its abundant resources and booming economy, Palo Alto truly offers something for everyone!

Things to do in Santa Maria?
Santa Maria, California is a vibrant city located in Santa Barbara County. From its stunning coastal landscape to its various cultural attractions, there's something for everyone in Santa Maria! Visitors can explore outdoor activities like Pismo Beach or takein some culture at places like the Allan Hancock College Museum of Natural History. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse sites like the Fremont Theater or the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Taqueria Don Beto or Mingos Mexican Restaurant. With so much to offer, Santa Maria makes for an unforgettable experience!

 Palo Alto, CASanta Maria, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock109,309329,725,481
 Median Income$194,782  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$3,107,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock11.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time24.23  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Palo Alto    8 Reviews

The Bay Area in general, but Palo Alto specifically provides many of the qualities sought by many; the climate is beautiful, there is access to cultural and recreational  More

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Over 17 years ago

Very  More

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Over 18 years ago

VTA and SamsTrans and Caltrain all provide good service and most times frequency of service is  More

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Reviews for Santa Maria    12 Reviews

Over 6 years ago

I live in Orcutt which is a town of around 35,000 on the south side of Santa Maria. Santa Maria has, as everyone has noted, the best climate in the world. It never  More

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I have lived in Santa Maria / Orcutt for several years, but it is time to leave. I have no issues with the weather. Our climate is mild and comfortable with no extremes.  More

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The weather is very mild without a huge temperature change with the seasons. The winters are chilly but not cold and the summers are warm but not hot. Of course there  More

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