2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Barbara, CA vs Las Cruces, NM

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Highlights
Are people in Las Cruces older or younger than people in Santa Barbara?
- The Median Age in Las Cruces is 6.4 years younger than in Santa Barbara.

Are housing costs cheaper in Las Cruces or Santa Barbara?
- Las Cruces housing costs are 82.3% less expensive than Santa Barbara housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Las Cruces or Santa Barbara?
- The average commute for residents of Las Cruces is 1.0 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 Las Cruces?
Las Cruces, New Mexico is a vibrant city located in Dona Ana County. From its breathtaking views to its many cultural attractions, Las Cruces has something for everyone! Outdoor activities like the Dripping Springs Natural Area and the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument will keep visitors entertained all day long. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like the Museum of Art or the Double Eagle ll Historic Site. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Jazzy Bar & Grille or La Posta de Mesilla. With so much to offer, Las Cruces is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

 Santa Barbara, CALas Cruces, NMUnited States
 Population  Unlock109,934329,725,481
 Median Income$89,243  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,525,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.1%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

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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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Reviews for Las Cruces    50 Reviews

I've lived in Las Cruces for six months now. Before moving here I was in Albuquerque (3 hrs north) for four years and before that I lived in Northern Utah most of my  More

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Over 2 years ago

Las Cruces is a hidden gem! Homes are still affordable, you're not far from bigger city entertainment/transportation, and the scenery in beautiful. It's not all dry  More

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Over 4 years ago

It depends on what you are looking for; for me Las Cruces is and ideal place. I am retired and the kind of places I seek to live in have changed over the years. I have  More

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