2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ridgecrest, CA vs Sonora, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Sonora older or younger than people in Ridgecrest?
- The Median Age in Sonora is 1.7 years older than in Ridgecrest.

Are housing costs cheaper in Sonora or Ridgecrest?
- Sonora housing costs are 54.5% more expensive than Ridgecrest housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Sonora or Ridgecrest?
- The average commute for residents of Sonora is 2.1 minutes shorter 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 Sonora?
Living in Sonora, CA is a beautiful experience. The small city has a population of only about 5,000, giving it a cozy and peaceful atmosphere. The downtown area is full of charming shops and restaurants that offer the perfect opportunity for exploring the local culture. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking the nearby mountains and forests or spending time at New Melones Lake. With its mild climate, Sonora provides plenty of warm days and crisp nights throughout the year. In addition to all these great features, there are also lots of exciting activities like concerts, festivals, and art galleries to explore. Sonora is truly an ideal place to call home!

 Ridgecrest, CASonora, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock4,940329,725,481
 Median Income$77,534  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$245,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.3%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 13 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 Sonora    15 Reviews

I have lived in Sonora for two and a half years and love it. Some of the earlier reviews I read scared me before coming. Here is what we have found. We live in a  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

I have lived here for 8 years and I absolutely hate it. This town is not built for all the people it has to accommodate. Everyone from the ENTIRE county comes here to do  More

   |    Reply

Lived here for 21 years since my family moved up from the valley (to get away from gang violence and other crime). Traffic doesn't pay attention constantly running  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Sonora


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.