2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Maria, CA vs Arroyo Grande, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Arroyo Grande older or younger than people in Santa Maria?
- The Median Age in Arroyo Grande is 17.5 years older than in Santa Maria.

Are housing costs cheaper in Arroyo Grande or Santa Maria?
- Arroyo Grande housing costs are 60.3% more expensive than Santa Maria housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Arroyo Grande or Santa Maria?
- The average commute for residents of Arroyo Grande is 0.7 minutes longer than it is for residents of Santa Maria.

Things to do in Santa Maria?
Santa Maria, California is a vibrant city located in Santa Barbara County. From its stunning coastal landscape to its various cultural attractions, there's something for everyone in Santa Maria! Visitors can explore outdoor activities like Pismo Beach or takein some culture at places like the Allan Hancock College Museum of Natural History. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse sites like the Fremont Theater or the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Taqueria Don Beto or Mingos Mexican Restaurant. With so much to offer, Santa Maria makes for an unforgettable experience!

Things to do in Arroyo Grande?
Arroyo Grande, California lies within San Luis Obispo county providing its citizens access to top rated schools such as Dana Elementary School while also having shopping options near Arroyo Grande Village Square as well as multiple food spots including La Caseta

 Santa Maria, CAArroyo Grande, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock18,422329,725,481
 Median Income$73,300  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock46.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$565,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.79  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Santa Maria    12 Reviews

Over 6 years ago

I live in Orcutt which is a town of around 35,000 on the south side of Santa Maria. Santa Maria has, as everyone has noted, the best climate in the world. It never  More

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I have lived in Santa Maria / Orcutt for several years, but it is time to leave. I have no issues with the weather. Our climate is mild and comfortable with no extremes.  More

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The weather is very mild without a huge temperature change with the seasons. The winters are chilly but not cold and the summers are warm but not hot. Of course there  More

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Reviews for Arroyo Grande    8 Reviews

Over 7 years ago

Arroyo Grande is a nice place to live. However, it is rather expensive for many people. There is a large retirement community living here, and home and rental prices are  More

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Over 8 years ago

I've lived here for nearly thirty years and love it. Great, easy climate year round. I know what I'm talking about--having lived in San Francisco Bay Area, Nevada,  More

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People from here absolutely love it and refuse to admit that it is much too expensive. They hate change. To live in a good school area will cost you dearly. There is  More

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