2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Riverside, CA vs Merced, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Merced older or younger than people in Riverside?
- The Median Age in Merced is 2.3 years younger than in Riverside.

Are housing costs cheaper in Merced or Riverside?
- Merced housing costs are 36.9% less expensive than Riverside housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Merced or Riverside?
- The average commute for residents of Merced is 6.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Riverside.

Things to do in Riverside?
Riverside, California is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers something for everyone. Visitors can explore the city's famous Mission Inn or take in the views from Mount Rubidoux Park. Nature lovers can take a trip to Fairmount Park or go on a hike at Box Springs Mountain Reserve. Foodies can take their pick among the many restaurants in town ranging from local favorites to fusion cuisine. Shopping enthusiasts can browse the boutiques of the downtown area or discover hidden treasures at The Galleria at Tyler Mall. With its diverse attractions and plenty of activities to choose from, Riverside promises any visitor an unforgettable experience.

Things to do in Merced?
Merced, California is a mid-sized city located in Central Valley known for its proximity to Yosemite National Park or Lake Yosemite making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation.

 Riverside, CAMerced, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock85,993329,725,481
 Median Income$76,755  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$590,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time30.41  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Riverside    42 Reviews

I've lived in Riverside for 54 years. It changed a LOT when people from LA started moving here in droves. Still, I have never been robbed or assaulted but I am  More

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I'm from Orange County (OC). I have had nothing but trouble since moving to Riverside. 1. The dogs are aggressive guard dogs. If you want to walk or bike you  More

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Over 7 years ago

Whew where to begin with dear old riverside. I enjoyed growing up here until my high school years (back in 2011). In 7 short years the downward deterioration of the  More

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Reviews for Merced    44 Reviews

Merced is totally slept on - you want a little bit of everything CA has to offer, at a fraction of the price of other CA cities? Merced is the place to go. The town  More

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Over 5 years ago

Good place to live. More affordable than most of california. The city is growing and there is alot of business and growth here. Moved from the Bay area years ago and  More

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Great place to live. Lots of progress and changes coming to the city. Great place to raise a family. UC Merced is expanding and businesses are investing. Downtown is  More

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