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

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Highlights
Are people in Ridgecrest older or younger than people in San Marcos?
- The Median Age in Ridgecrest is 1.0 years older than in San Marcos.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ridgecrest or San Marcos?
- Ridgecrest housing costs are 69.8% less expensive than San Marcos housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ridgecrest or San Marcos?
- The average commute for residents of Ridgecrest is 2.8 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 Ridgecrest?
Located in the Indian Wells Valley of the Mojave Desert, Ridgecrest is a city in Kern County known for its rich cultural and recreational activities. With a population of over 27,000, this growing city offers attractions such as the desert landscape and nearby mountains, along with local events and recreation opportunities.

 San Marcos, CARidgecrest, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock27,989329,725,481
 Median Income$90,620  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$813,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%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 Ridgecrest    7 Reviews

For context, I grew up in Ridgecrest and moved away after graduating high school. I have since lived in LA and the Bay Area but I visit RC often. RC is in the high  More

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Ridgecrest and Kern County are red state bastions in a land of blue voting counties. If you want a concealed weapons permit, you'll get it. Want to own any firearm  More

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Over 13 years ago

The hardest thing to get used to in Ridgecrest is the weather. It can get quite windy. And hot. 115 hot. But it's a dry heat! It does cool off in the evening, and it  More

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