2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Maria, CA vs Lake Elsinore, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Lake Elsinore older or younger than people in Santa Maria?
- The Median Age in Lake Elsinore is 2.6 years older than in Santa Maria.

Are housing costs cheaper in Lake Elsinore or Santa Maria?
- Lake Elsinore housing costs are 6.6% less expensive than Santa Maria housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Lake Elsinore or Santa Maria?
- The average commute for residents of Lake Elsinore is 23.3 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 Lake Elsinore?
Lake Elsinore, California is a vibrant city located in the heart of Riverside County. This welcoming community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the Diamond Stadium or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Lake Elsinore Recreational Area, The Wildomar Off-Highway Vehicle Areas, and Ortega Oak Preserve Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Lake Elsinore their home.

 Santa Maria, CALake Elsinore, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock68,822329,725,481
 Median Income$73,300  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$565,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.6%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 Lake Elsinore    10 Reviews

The new comfort index for Lake Elsinore is 78. I lived in Lake Elsinore for 10 years, and there are usually 100+ days that the temperature is over 90, and several weeks  More

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8/23/2013 To someone thinking of moving to Lake Elsinore I really want to write this to you because I was in you position a year and a half ago. I was living in Delmar  More

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Over 15 years ago

How is the area near the Ortegas? I see a lot of families. Is this a good place for kids and  More

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