2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Barbara, CA vs Manhattan, NY

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Highlights
Are people in Manhattan older or younger than people in Santa Barbara?
- The Median Age in Manhattan is 1.0 years younger than in Santa Barbara.

Are housing costs cheaper in Manhattan or Santa Barbara?
- Manhattan housing costs are 23.3% less expensive than Santa Barbara housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Manhattan or Santa Barbara?
- The average commute for residents of Manhattan is 14.7 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 Manhattan?
Manhattan, New York is a bustling metropolis that pulses with energy and life. From iconic landmarks to world-renowned restaurants, boutiques, theaters and art galleries - Manhattan is a city unlike any other. Whether you’re looking for an exciting night on the town or just a quiet stroll through Central Park - you’ll find it all in Manhattan. With its diverse neighborhoods and never-ending list of things to do, visiting Manhattan promises to be an unforgettable experience!

 Santa Barbara, CAManhattan, NYUnited States
 Population  Unlock1,669,127329,725,481
 Median Income$89,243  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,525,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.6%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 Manhattan    2 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

Manhattan is a great place with lots to see and do. Exciting to visit and great to live if you have the  More

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This is the best city ever, it is very welcoming and there is a lot of fun things to do. I have lived her for 2 years now and have already had so many great experiences  More

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