2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ruidoso, NM vs Santa Barbara, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Barbara older or younger than people in Ruidoso?
- The Median Age in Santa Barbara is 11.5 years younger than in Ruidoso.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Barbara or Ruidoso?
- Santa Barbara housing costs are 439.8% more expensive than Ruidoso housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Barbara or Ruidoso?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Barbara is 0.5 minutes longer than it is for residents of Ruidoso.

Things to do in Ruidoso?
Ruidoso, NM is a small town nestled in the beautiful mountains of New Mexico. It's home to a friendly community of people who all enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, whether that's hiking, biking, fishing, or simply taking in the breathtaking vistas. Life here is laid back and relaxed—a place where you can truly savor life's simple pleasures. With its abundance of activities, picturesque scenery and warm hospitality, Ruidoso is a great choice for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

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.

 Ruidoso, NMSanta Barbara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,132329,725,481
 Median Income$45,414  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$282,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.6  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ruidoso    12 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

Best place in NM to live , unless you like crowds, traffic, crime, and concrete. Plenty of jobs and min wage is now close to $12/hr. Housing is a little pricey but  More

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Over 3 years ago

I love Ruidoso, or "noisy river". I have always visited but now i live here. Was my first choice if I ever moved. I am so glad I left El Paso, was getting way to big  More

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I’ve lived in this town for nine years and loved it. The weather is by far the best thing about this town. Just don’t be a “rude Texan,“ and you will be fine. Try not to  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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