2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Barbara, CA vs Providence, RI

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Providence older or younger than people in Santa Barbara?
- The Median Age in Providence is 7.0 years younger than in Santa Barbara.

Are housing costs cheaper in Providence or Santa Barbara?
- Providence housing costs are 77.0% less expensive than Santa Barbara housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Providence or Santa Barbara?
- The average commute for residents of Providence is 5.7 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 Providence?
Providence, Rhode Island is a charming city that offers a variety of activities for visitors. Home to several universities and colleges, the city is full of history, culture, and art. Tourists can explore the Waterplace Park along the banks of the Woonasquatucket River, take a stroll through the Roger Williams Park Zoo, or visit some of the many historical sites throughout downtown. For nightlife options, there's an array of restaurants and bars that provide incredible dining experiences and entertainment. With its wealth of attractions, Providence will surely make any trip to New England memorable!

 Santa Barbara, CAProvidence, RIUnited States
 Population  Unlock188,812329,725,481
 Median Income$89,243  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.138.4
 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

   |    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 Providence    19 Reviews

Over 7 years ago

I think I hate this city more then my  More

   |    Reply

Over 9 years ago

I currently live in Rockford IL and just graduated college for broadcasting. I want to move out of this depressing, negative city and was thinking about Providence,  More

   |    Reply

And I've been to San Francisco and Seattle, so that's saying a lot. If you like pot, good for you, my annoyance is with all the people who smoke pot plainly in  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Providence


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.