2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Maria, CA vs San Luis Obispo, CA

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Highlights
Are people in San Luis Obispo older or younger than people in Santa Maria?
- The Median Age in San Luis Obispo is 3.2 years younger than in Santa Maria.

Are housing costs cheaper in San Luis Obispo or Santa Maria?
- San Luis Obispo housing costs are 65.0% more expensive than Santa Maria housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, San Luis Obispo or Santa Maria?
- The average commute for residents of San Luis Obispo is 5.6 minutes shorter 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 San Luis Obispo?
San Luis Obispo, California is located on the Central Coast and offers stunning views of rolling hills and the Pacific Ocean. It's a great place to live with its temperate climate, excellent restaurants and unique shops. Every year locals flock to the famous Thursday night Farmer’s Market or to outdoor festivals like the SLO County Fair. For outdoor activities there are plenty of parks and trails plus beaches for surfing and swimming.

 Santa Maria, CASan Luis Obispo, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock47,257329,725,481
 Median Income$73,300  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2638.4
 Avg. Home Price$565,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.5%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 San Luis Obispo    21 Reviews

MY FIANCEE AND I ARE LOOKING TO MOVE TO SLO FOR RETIREMENT ( NEXT MONTH ) WE ARE BOTH ARTISTS AND HOPE OUR TALENT WILL HELP WITH COST OF LIVING IN SLO!!! ANY  More

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Over 10 years ago

In almost any season of the year in San Luis Obispo, you’ll find the sun shining and the temperature hitting around 70º at some point in the day. With the temperature  More

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San Luis Obispo and surrounding areas are beautiful, great weather, beaches, farms markets, a downtown area full of some of the best bars and restaurants, wine country,  More

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