2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Sanibel, FL vs Santa Barbara, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Barbara older or younger than people in Sanibel?
- The Median Age in Santa Barbara is 29.1 years younger than in Sanibel.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Barbara or Sanibel?
- Santa Barbara housing costs are 42.7% more expensive than Sanibel housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Barbara or Sanibel?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Barbara is 0.5 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Sanibel.

Things to do in Sanibel?
Living in Sanibel, FL is a truly magical experience. Its beautiful white sand beaches, lush mangrove forests, and winding bike trails make it the perfect place to relax and explore. The clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico are ideal for fishing, swimming, and watching dolphins or manatees. Sanibel Island has been called a \nature lover’s paradise,\ with its abundant wildlife and natural beauty. Whether you're looking for a peaceful beach getaway or an outdoor adventure, there's something for everyone in Sanibel!

Things to do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara, California has something for everyone - from fantastic beaches to world-class shopping and dining experiences. Visitors can explore Old Mission Santa Barbara or take part in various water activities around Stearns Wharf.

 Sanibel, FLSanta Barbara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,132329,725,481
 Median Income$103,413  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,068,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.6  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Sanibel    1 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

Sun, Shells, and environmentally  More

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Reviews for Santa Barbara    51 Reviews

I moved to Santa Barbara around 23 years ago to study at Brooks, which like most of the Santa Barbara that I knew—has been destroyed. Homelessness, drugs, gangs, high  More

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Over 4 years ago

I fell in love with Santa Barbara about thirty years ago and finally moved here a few years ago. Because of the price of homes, it is an expensive place to live. The  More

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If you like high crime, paying a $4,500 a month mortgage and crazy high taxes, this is the place for you. It’s too bad because it wasn’t always like this. When I moved  More

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