2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Barbara, CA vs Sun Valley, ID

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Sun Valley older or younger than people in Santa Barbara?
- The Median Age in Sun Valley is 18.9 years older than in Santa Barbara.

Are housing costs cheaper in Sun Valley or Santa Barbara?
- Sun Valley housing costs are 22.5% less expensive than Santa Barbara housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Sun Valley or Santa Barbara?
- The average commute for residents of Sun Valley is 2.1 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 Sun Valley?
Living in Sun Valley, ID is an amazing experience! The town has a small-town feel, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy. You can explore the scenic mountain trails for hiking and biking, take part in the annual Sun Valley Music Festival or the Sun Valley Jazz Jamboree, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the Sawtooth Mountains. There's always something to do in this little ski town, from skiing and snowboarding to fishing and golfing. In addition, there are plenty of excellent restaurants and bars to choose from, as well as unique shops that specialize in everything from antiques to fine art. It's no wonder so many people flock here year round!

 Santa Barbara, CASun Valley, IDUnited States
 Population  Unlock1,277329,725,481
 Median Income$89,243  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock5838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,525,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.3%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 Sun Valley    5 Reviews

Young people living in Sun Valley, unless they have a trust fund can expect to have a difficult time here. The average age seems to be approx 78. Any business that is  More

   |    Reply

Absolutely beautiful. Nice people. Amazing skiing...all types of recreation for anyone and everyone. Summer temperatures are perfect. It's sunny more than 250 days  More

   |    Reply

Over 19 years ago

Winters are long, and summers can be short!!! The physcial beauty of the area is unbeatable,  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Sun Valley


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.