2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Maria, CA vs Imperial Beach, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Imperial Beach older or younger than people in Santa Maria?
- The Median Age in Imperial Beach is 4.2 years older than in Santa Maria.

Are housing costs cheaper in Imperial Beach or Santa Maria?
- Imperial Beach housing costs are 42.4% more expensive than Santa Maria housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Imperial Beach or Santa Maria?
- The average commute for residents of Imperial Beach is 6.1 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 Imperial Beach?
Imperial Beach, CA is a beachfront community located in San Diego County. It’s known for its year-round sunny climate and picturesque waterfront, allowing visitors to enjoy activities like surfing and swimming in the warm Pacific Ocean. The city also offers a variety of restaurants and shops along its boardwalk, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists alike.

 Santa Maria, CAImperial Beach, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock26,375329,725,481
 Median Income$73,300  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock33.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$565,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.9%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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Maria

Reviews for Imperial Beach    5 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

In my opinion, imperial beach is the best place to live. IB is the perfect place to raise a family. It has the perfect amount of the good and the bad.  More

   |    Reply

My wife and I moved here from Chula Vista, CA before we knew she was pregnant, attracted by the opportunity to live right near the ocean; in a small, albeit somewhat  More

   |    Reply

Over 19 years ago

Come live in San Diego's most affordable beach community...Imperial  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Imperial Beach


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.