2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Maria, CA vs Murrieta, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Murrieta older or younger than people in Santa Maria?
- The Median Age in Murrieta is 5.8 years older than in Santa Maria.

Are housing costs cheaper in Murrieta or Santa Maria?
- Murrieta housing costs are 6.2% more expensive than Santa Maria housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Murrieta or Santa Maria?
- The average commute for residents of Murrieta is 15.3 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 Murrieta?
Murrieta, California is a picturesque city located in Riverside County. With year-round sunshine and mild temperatures, Murrieta provides the perfect environment to explore the great outdoors or simply relax. The city is home to some of the best shopping and dining options in the area as well as unique cultural attractions such as the Diamond Valley Lake Marine Preserve. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or peaceful relaxation, Murrieta has something to offer everyone!

 Santa Maria, CAMurrieta, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock111,096329,725,481
 Median Income$73,300  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3538.4
 Avg. Home Price$565,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.0%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 Murrieta    39 Reviews

Paul · 
Over 2 years ago

Very expensive to rent here. Many apartments in Murrieta charge as much as $2,300 for a single bedroom. But this is California, so maybe it’s cheaper than LA or Orange  More

   |    Reply

I moved here for my wife's job. It's a cookie cutter middle class community that costs 2-3 times as much as Texas. Homes aren't custom. They are tract homes on small  More

   |    Reply

George · 

A great place to live and raise a family. It’s a quintessential bedroom community. Very safe. Violent crime is a rarity here. Property crime is very low here too.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Murrieta


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.