2025 Compare Cities Overview:
San Marcos, CA vs Imperial Beach, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Imperial Beach older or younger than people in San Marcos?
- The Median Age in Imperial Beach is 2.2 years younger than in San Marcos.

Are housing costs cheaper in Imperial Beach or San Marcos?
- Imperial Beach housing costs are 1.1% less expensive than San Marcos housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Imperial Beach or San Marcos?
- The average commute for residents of Imperial Beach is 0.7 minutes longer than it is for residents of San Marcos.

Things to do in San Marcos?
San Marcos, California is an amazing city located in northern San Diego County. It's known for its picturesque mountain backdrop, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can take advantage of outdoor activities like exploring Lake San Marcos or enjoying a day at Walnut Grove Park to explore the local area. History buffs can visit places like Old Mission San Luis Rey Church or César E. Chávez Recreation Area to gain insight into local history. After exploring, sample delicious food from restaurants like Turf Grill & Sports Bar or Sushi Ryu. With so much to offer, San Marcos is an ideal destination for an unforgettable experience!

Things to do in Imperial Beach?
Imperial Beach, CA is a beachfront community located in San Diego County. It’s known for its year-round sunny climate and picturesque waterfront, allowing visitors to enjoy activities like surfing and swimming in the warm Pacific Ocean. The city also offers a variety of restaurants and shops along its boardwalk, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists alike.

 San Marcos, CAImperial Beach, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock26,375329,725,481
 Median Income$90,620  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock33.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$813,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.23  Unlock26.38
Reviews for San Marcos    5 Reviews

Just an amazing place to live. I have lived in 7 states and almost countless cities. Sam Marcos is one of the best. This is literally the longest place I have lived  More

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Over 15 years ago

Is this area to expensive for the average income retired  More

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Over 18 years ago

Beautiful Mediterranean climate with bright sunshine and ocean breazes. City is just 15 minutes away from the  More

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Reviews for Imperial Beach    5 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

In my opinion, imperial beach is the best place to live. IB is the perfect place to raise a family. It has the perfect amount of the good and the bad.  More

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My wife and I moved here from Chula Vista, CA before we knew she was pregnant, attracted by the opportunity to live right near the ocean; in a small, albeit somewhat  More

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Over 19 years ago

Come live in San Diego's most affordable beach community...Imperial  More

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