2025 Compare Cities Overview:
San Mateo, CA vs Alameda, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Alameda older or younger than people in San Mateo?
- The Median Age in Alameda is 2.9 years older than in San Mateo.

Are housing costs cheaper in Alameda or San Mateo?
- Alameda housing costs are 14.5% less expensive than San Mateo housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Alameda or San Mateo?
- The average commute for residents of Alameda is 5.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of San Mateo.

Things to do in San Mateo?
San Mateo, California is a vibrant city located in San Mateo County. From its breathtaking views to its many cultural attractions, San Mateo has something for everyone! Outdoor activities like Coyote Point Recreation Area and Golden Gate National Recreation Area will keep visitors entertained all day long. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like the San Mateo Main Library or the Museum of San Carlos History. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like The Fish Market or Los Primos Mexican Restaurant. With so much to offer, San Mateo is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

Things to do in Alameda?
Alameda, California provides locals and visitors with plenty of attractions ranging from USS Hornet Museum Ship to shopping on Webster street.

 San Mateo, CAAlameda, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock78,320329,725,481
 Median Income$133,612  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock40.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,378,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time27.77  Unlock26.38
Reviews for San Mateo    12 Reviews

I have lived in San Mateo since 2013. It has seen tremendous growth, lots of new restaurants which have become progressively more high-end though there is ample  More

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I'm a native of California. I have lived in the southern part of the state and the northern part of the state for most of my life. I have spent the last 29 years in  More

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Over 15 years ago

San Mateo has a diverse mix of people, a pleasant climate, a very pleasant downtown park with lots going on, and pretty much whatever you need handy. It's not far to  More

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Reviews for Alameda    6 Reviews

Over 7 years ago

Having been born here & 70 now I have watched firsthand, a small, quiet town ruined by excessive building, overcrowding and far too many restaurants for a city this  More

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Enjoy the immense benefit to having a close-knit community with main-street USA feel less than 10 miles from the resources of several urban and education  More

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Alameda, CA is a unique town here in the Bay Area. Perhaps because it is an island, or perhaps because for many decades it was a U.S. Army base, the city has never  More

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