2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Maria, CA vs Nevada City, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Nevada City older or younger than people in Santa Maria?
- The Median Age in Nevada City is 30.0 years older than in Santa Maria.

Are housing costs cheaper in Nevada City or Santa Maria?
- Nevada City housing costs are 8.9% less expensive than Santa Maria housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Nevada City or Santa Maria?
- The average commute for residents of Nevada City is 3.7 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 Nevada City?
Living in Nevada City, CA is an incredible experience. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountainous terrain and boasts a vibrant downtown area with boutique shops, restaurants, and galleries. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from rafting down the South Yuba River to skiing at Boreal Mountain Resort. The town has a charm all its own, with its unique Victorian-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and quaint coffee shops lining the main street. Residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle and easy access to outdoor activities throughout the year. It's the perfect place to relax, escape from everyday life and explore nature’s beauty.

 Santa Maria, CANevada City, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock3,097329,725,481
 Median Income$73,300  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock59.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$565,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.1%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 Nevada City    6 Reviews

Over 7 years ago

I lived in Y.C Ca for 14 yrs and Nevada City became my favorite town to visit. The restaurants are great, the night life is mellow but you get a variety of music...shoos  More

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We are seriously considering a move to Nevada City. I have a lot of questions about what it will be like for a liberal-minded family with a teenage son. Will he find  More

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Over 9 years ago

I have been coming here since I was a child. I am from the bay area, the town I grew up in was small and I met my husband there. We raised our children there. The  More

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