2025 Compare Cities Overview:
San Mateo, CA vs Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Carmel-by-the-Sea older or younger than people in San Mateo?
- The Median Age in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 25.9 years older than in San Mateo.

Are housing costs cheaper in Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Mateo?
- Carmel-by-the-Sea housing costs are 39.0% more expensive than San Mateo housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Mateo?
- The average commute for residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea is 5.3 minutes shorter 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Living in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is like living in paradise. With its beautiful white sand beaches, stunning ocean views, and colorful gardens, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this picturesque city. Its unique shops, restaurants and galleries provide visitors with a unique shopping experience while its numerous parks and trails offer plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. The climate is mild year round, making it the perfect spot for vacationers or those looking for a permanent home. The quaint downtown area of Carmel-by-the-Sea provides a relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of the most desirable places to live on the Central Coast.

 San Mateo, CACarmel-by-the-Sea, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock3,296329,725,481
 Median Income$133,612  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock63.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,378,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.4%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 Carmel-By-The-Sea    3 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

Climate, cost &  More

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carmel has about 60 vacation homes and a dense cottage-y downtown. basically it is a tourist trap cental business district and a bunch of vacation rental homes. the  More

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Over 17 years ago

Liberals have run me out of town. The political is so overwhelming I am looking to relocate. However, if you are an aging hippie with a great deal of money you will be  More

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