2025 Compare Cities Overview:
San Jose, CA vs Costa Mesa, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Costa Mesa older or younger than people in San Jose?
- The Median Age in Costa Mesa is 1.5 years younger than in San Jose.

Are housing costs cheaper in Costa Mesa or San Jose?
- Costa Mesa housing costs are 7.3% less expensive than San Jose housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Costa Mesa or San Jose?
- The average commute for residents of Costa Mesa is 7.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of San Jose.

Things to do in San Jose?
San Jose, California is a vibrant city filled with attractions, activities and events for all ages. From world-class museums like the Tech Museum of Innovation, to family-friendly destinations like the Children’s Discovery Museum - there's something for everyone in this city. The colorful downtown district boasts an array of shops, restaurants and entertainment to satisfy any traveler, while outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring its nearby parks and trails. With its temperate climate, San Jose offers endless opportunities for year-round fun in the sun - making it an ideal destination for any adventure seeker!

Things to do in Costa Mesa?
Costa Mesa, California is an upscale beach-side city located in the Orange County region of Southern California. With its sunny days, mild winters, and beautiful beaches, Costa Mesa provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From world-class shopping malls to award-winning art galleries and top-notch dining options, there's something for everyone in this vibrant coastal town. For those looking for active outdoor pursuits, Costa Mesa offers plenty of parks, trails and other nature activities; whatever your interests may be - you're sure to find something to enjoy here!

 San Jose, CACosta Mesa, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock112,148329,725,481
 Median Income$125,075  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,184,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time29.4  Unlock26.38
Reviews for San Jose    90 Reviews

I've lived in west San Jose/Cambrian, between Los Gatos and Almaden SJ since 1997. This side of town somehow avoided the erosion of the American dream. Houses are  More

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I lived in San Jose for 40 years. That’s during the most exciting time when the Silicon Valley was booming with real technology and San Jose was ranked as the safest big  More

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Over 4 years ago

I've lived in San Jose, CA for 25 years. This city is being over run with crime and gangs. The cost of living is very high. Granted, you are so close to mountains,  More

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Reviews for Costa Mesa    8 Reviews

Over 15 years ago

Costa mesa has awesome shopping but is way too crowded and I have had 3 cars stolen in the past 5 years along with countless break-ins and theft. Expensive. Close to  More

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Over 16 years ago

Costa Mesa has a near perfect climate . . . plenty of sun but rarely over 100 degrees (our house doesn't even have AC). Nestled between Newport Beach and Huntington  More

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We have a good amount of low-income, medium-income, and relatively high-income  More

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