2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Barbara, CA vs Boston, MA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Boston older or younger than people in Santa Barbara?
- The Median Age in Boston is 6.5 years younger than in Santa Barbara.

Are housing costs cheaper in Boston or Santa Barbara?
- Boston housing costs are 57.0% less expensive than Santa Barbara housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Boston or Santa Barbara?
- The average commute for residents of Boston is 13.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Santa Barbara.

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.

Things to do in Boston?
Boston, Massachusetts is a bustling metropolitan city with plenty to offer. From the renowned Freedom Trail and Fenway Park to the scenic Charles River and Beacon Hill, visitors of all ages will find something to do in this historic city. Tour Harvard University or take a walk through the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill and see why it's known as one of America's most charming cities. From art and history museums to sports venues and delicious seafood restaurants, Boston has it all for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.

 Santa Barbara, CABoston, MAUnited States
 Population  Unlock672,814329,725,481
 Median Income$89,243  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,525,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.15  Unlock26.38
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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Barbara

Reviews for Boston    122 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

health care in the country, plenty of jobs, gorgeous architecture, cool neighborhoods, lots of great restaurants, and always something to do. The beautiful coast, the  More

   |    Reply

I've lived in/near Boston my whole life almost. It has many pros such as a big city feel, extremely safe, reliable train transportation, great food. However any pro  More

   |    Reply

I moved to MA from the country of Georgia in eastern Europe. Then traveled quite a bit in the U.S. Boston definitely has its own flavor. Suburbs offer okay schools,  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Boston


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.