2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Ridgecrest, CA vs Austin, TX

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Austin older or younger than people in Ridgecrest?
- The Median Age in Austin is 2.7 years younger than in Ridgecrest.

Are housing costs cheaper in Austin or Ridgecrest?
- Austin housing costs are 135.1% more expensive than Ridgecrest housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Austin or Ridgecrest?
- The average commute for residents of Austin is 0.7 minutes longer than it is for residents of Ridgecrest.

Things to do in Ridgecrest?
Located in the Indian Wells Valley of the Mojave Desert, Ridgecrest is a city in Kern County known for its rich cultural and recreational activities. With a population of over 27,000, this growing city offers attractions such as the desert landscape and nearby mountains, along with local events and recreation opportunities.

Things to do in Austin?
Austin, Texas is a vibrant city known for its eclectic culture, delicious food, and outdoor activities. Home to world renowned music venues like the Moody Theater and the Cactus Café, visitors can explore a wide range of genres such as country, rock and roll, blues, jazz, funk and more. The city also offers a plethora of unique restaurants featuring everything from traditional Tex-Mex dishes to innovative gastronomy creations. Nature lovers will find plenty to do with Austin's network of trails perfect for hiking and biking. With its creative spirit and endless opportunities to explore - Austin is a great place for any traveler looking for an unforgettable adventure!

 Ridgecrest, CAAustin, TXUnited States
 Population  Unlock944,658329,725,481
 Median Income$77,534  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock33.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$245,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.43  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ridgecrest    7 Reviews

For context, I grew up in Ridgecrest and moved away after graduating high school. I have since lived in LA and the Bay Area but I visit RC often. RC is in the high  More

   |    Reply

Ridgecrest and Kern County are red state bastions in a land of blue voting counties. If you want a concealed weapons permit, you'll get it. Want to own any firearm  More

   |    Reply

Over 14 years ago

The hardest thing to get used to in Ridgecrest is the weather. It can get quite windy. And hot. 115 hot. But it's a dry heat! It does cool off in the evening, and it  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ridgecrest

Reviews for Austin    449 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

Good place to visit.  More

   |    Reply

Austin is too expensive. Let's get that out of the way. Other than that it is a fun city. Ladybird Lake makes the city, imo. The ability to stand up paddle, kayak, walk  More

   |    Reply

The city continues to grow quickly, which a lot of people don't like. I get it, you fall in love with a city, and it's growing so fast that you don't recognize the same  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Austin


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.