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

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Barbara older or younger than people in Riverside?
- The Median Age in Santa Barbara is 7.2 years older than in Riverside.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Barbara or Riverside?
- Santa Barbara housing costs are 158.3% more expensive than Riverside housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Barbara or Riverside?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Barbara is 13.3 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 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.

 Riverside, CASanta Barbara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,132329,725,481
 Median Income$76,755  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$590,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%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 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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