2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Barbara, CA vs Fresno, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Fresno older or younger than people in Santa Barbara?
- The Median Age in Fresno is 7.4 years younger than in Santa Barbara.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fresno or Santa Barbara?
- Fresno housing costs are 76.4% less expensive than Santa Barbara housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fresno or Santa Barbara?
- The average commute for residents of Fresno is 4.5 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 Fresno?
Fresno, California is a great destination for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Spend the day exploring the Forestiere Underground Gardens or pay a visit to nearby Millerton Lake. Enjoy some shopping and dining in Old Town Clovis or take in some of the city's art and culture with a trip to the Fresno Art Museum. For those looking for outdoor recreation, Woodward Park offers bike trails, camping sites, and disc golf courses. Whether you're looking for unique attractions or just an escape from city life, Fresno has something for everyone!

 Santa Barbara, CAFresno, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock538,678329,725,481
 Median Income$89,243  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,525,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%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 Fresno    77 Reviews

I'm not gonna say this city is terrible, but it certainly has many issues that need to be taken care of and unfortunately the city council has done a poor job keeping up  More

   |    Reply

I've lived in Fresno my entire life and when I became an adult, I began to realize how much being a resident here really sucks, it might be cheaper than most other  More

   |    Reply

Lived here since 2002. I may be flamed for this, but.. total dump and I would rate 0 stars if I could. You only really move here to move out. As good as a gas stop.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Fresno


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.