2025 Compare Cities Overview:
San Marcos, CA vs Merced, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Merced older or younger than people in San Marcos?
- The Median Age in Merced is 6.0 years younger than in San Marcos.

Are housing costs cheaper in Merced or San Marcos?
- Merced housing costs are 54.1% less expensive than San Marcos housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Merced or San Marcos?
- The average commute for residents of Merced is 2.7 minutes shorter 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 Merced?
Merced, California is a mid-sized city located in Central Valley known for its proximity to Yosemite National Park or Lake Yosemite making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation.

 San Marcos, CAMerced, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock85,993329,725,481
 Median Income$90,620  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$813,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.3%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 Merced    44 Reviews

Merced is totally slept on - you want a little bit of everything CA has to offer, at a fraction of the price of other CA cities? Merced is the place to go. The town  More

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Over 5 years ago

Good place to live. More affordable than most of california. The city is growing and there is alot of business and growth here. Moved from the Bay area years ago and  More

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Great place to live. Lots of progress and changes coming to the city. Great place to raise a family. UC Merced is expanding and businesses are investing. Downtown is  More

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