2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Salinas, CA vs Arcata, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Arcata older or younger than people in Salinas?
- The Median Age in Arcata is 4.4 years younger than in Salinas.

Are housing costs cheaper in Arcata or Salinas?
- Arcata housing costs are 33.2% less expensive than Salinas housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Arcata or Salinas?
- The average commute for residents of Arcata is 6.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Salinas.

Things to do in Salinas?
Salinas, California is a vibrant city located in the heart of Monterey County. Home to many outdoor attractions such as Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge and Toro Regional Park, visitors can explore nature at its finest when visiting Salinas. There are also plenty of cultural attractions including galleries and museums. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Salinas has something for everyone!

Things to do in Arcata?
Nestled on California’s North Coast just south of Eureka, Arcata offers visitors an array of natural beauty from redwood forests to rugged coastline along with world-class dining experiences like the Alice Copper Restaurant & Brewery. The city hosts a variety of cultural attractions year round from art galleries to live music venues making it a great destination for everyone.

 Salinas, CAArcata, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock19,038329,725,481
 Median Income$75,747  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock26.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$665,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.19  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Salinas    15 Reviews

Over 11 years ago

Sacred Heart School is a fine Catholic school in the heart of Salinas, Ca. Victoria Torcolini was principal of this PK-8 school from 2006-2009. Under her leadership, SHS  More

   |    Reply

Over 13 years ago

I Was born and raise in salinas. In 2006 my family moved to the central valley. I moved back to salinas in 2011. I moved back Because I got a better job in Carmel. I  More

   |    Reply

Salinas, California has some of the best weather in Central California. I love looking out at the mountain ranges that line the Salinas River Valley. It's a shame that  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Salinas

Reviews for Arcata    17 Reviews

Pros: Nature hikes Cons: One of highest crime rates in the nation. Opioid epidemic going on (you’ll regularly witness drug deals and ppl doing drugs) No  More

   |    Reply

It takes a special set of preferences to select Arcata. Is this you? - You love clouds and fog. You are happy if you see the sun maybe 10-20 times a year. - Chilly  More

   |    Reply

Over 11 years ago

I've lived in Humboldt for over 30 yrs and know all the areas well. Arcata is the jewel of Humboldt due to having a university and many liberal creative people. There is  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Arcata


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.