2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Barbara, CA vs Charlottesville, VA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Charlottesville older or younger than people in Santa Barbara?
- The Median Age in Charlottesville is 6.6 years younger than in Santa Barbara.

Are housing costs cheaper in Charlottesville or Santa Barbara?
- Charlottesville housing costs are 71.9% less expensive than Santa Barbara housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Charlottesville or Santa Barbara?
- The average commute for residents of Charlottesville is 0.6 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 Charlottesville?
Charlottesville, Virginia lies between Richmond & Washington D.C., making it an ideal spot for those who want access to urban life without actually living in a big city environment. Home to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate, Charlottesville boasts gorgeous architecture plus numerous wineries & eateries where you can sample some amazing local cuisine. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound here too: take your pick from hikes through beautiful mountain trails or canoeing down Big Run Creek - both will leave you with lasting memories!

 Santa Barbara, CACharlottesville, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock46,597329,725,481
 Median Income$89,243  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,525,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.7%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 Charlottesville    44 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

I have lived in Charlottesville, Albemarle County for 25 years. It USED to be a decent place but in the past 10 years has gone downhill. Rent is TOO high, landlords are  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

Loved here for 7 years, lots of parks and close proximity to Shenandoah, but that’s where the positives end. High cost of living with extreme income inequality,  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

Charlottesville resident for 7 years. Plenty of parks, the Rivanna River and trail, and a short drive to Shenandoah National Park means plenty of opportunities for  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Charlottesville


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.