2026 Compare Cities Overview:
San Marcos, TX vs Solana Beach, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Solana Beach older or younger than people in San Marcos?
- The Median Age in Solana Beach is 21.5 years older than in San Marcos.

Are housing costs cheaper in Solana Beach or San Marcos?
- Solana Beach housing costs are 465.0% more expensive than San Marcos housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Solana Beach or San Marcos?
- The average commute for residents of Solana Beach is 1.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of San Marcos.

Things to do in San Marcos?
San Marcos, Texas is a vibrant city located in the heart of Hays County. This welcoming community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the Wonder World Cave or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Rio Vista Park, Aquarena Springs and Purgatory Creek Natural Area. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make San Marcos their home.

Things to do in Solana Beach?
Solana Beach, CA is an incorporated city situated north of San Diego in San Diego County with a population estimated around 13400 people living there. Solana Beach provides visitors access to Fletcher Cove Beach open 365 days a year along with many restaurants offering cuisines from Asian-fusion to classic American taking advantage of locally sourced ingredients gathered at regular farmers markets held all over town. Tourists can also find here great shopping opportunities while enjoying breathtaking views while strolling through Cedros Avenue Design District displaying works from renowned artists or experience annual Fiestas de Las Lanchas celebration honoring this community's long standing Mexican heritage making it one of the most popular destination in California.

 San Marcos, TXSolana Beach, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock13,025329,725,481
 Median Income$42,500  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock46.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$335,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.06  Unlock26.38
Reviews for San Marcos    6 Reviews

An area with so much potential and existing natural beauty.Sadly bad urban planning is clearly obvious.Looks like fun for tens of thousands of students.However for the  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

San Marcos has the most beautiful people and places that I have ever seen throughout my travels. I love this city so much that I decided to settle down here and start a  More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

I spent several summers and a couple winters in San Marcos during my formidable years and really have to tell those interested about what a nice town it is. The best  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of San Marcos

Reviews for Solana Beach    3 Reviews

I've lived in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Venice Beach, Hermosa Beach, San Luis Obispo, Carlsbad, Encinitas and my wife and I saved up every penny we could to buy a  More

   |    Reply

Rent has skyrocketed in Solana Beach in the past ten years. High rent and more people cramming into single person rental units.   More

   |    Reply

Over 21 years ago

Very expensive. Being from east coast it was hard because people dont speak to you in normal situations..example , picking up kids from school ..if you pass a parent  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Solana Beach


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.