2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Monica, CA vs Dana Point, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Dana Point older or younger than people in Santa Monica?
- The Median Age in Dana Point is 7.1 years older than in Santa Monica.

Are housing costs cheaper in Dana Point or Santa Monica?
- Dana Point housing costs are 17.9% less expensive than Santa Monica housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Dana Point or Santa Monica?
- The average commute for residents of Dana Point is 2.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Santa Monica.

Things to do in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica, California is a vibrant beach city located in Los Angeles County. This popular destination offers something for everyone, from world-class shopping and dining to outdoor activities like surfing and biking along the beachside path. Cultural attractions like the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium and the nearby Getty Villa make it easy to explore the area's history and art. Nightlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the countless bars, nightclubs, and lounges scattered throughout town. With its many attractions and activities, Santa Monica is sure to make your vacation unforgettable!

Things to do in Dana Point?
Dana Point CA is situated on Orange County’s beautiful coastline with miles of picturesque beaches perfect for scuba diving, surfing and other water sports.

 Santa Monica, CADana Point, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock33,327329,725,481
 Median Income$99,847  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock48.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,656,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.18  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Santa Monica    24 Reviews

I moved here to Santa Monica over 10 years ago from Oklahoma City. I was surprised to see that Oklahoma City was ranked higher than Santa Monica on best places. I  More

   |    Reply

I've lived in Santa Monica for over 30 years. It's a Mediterranean climate--sunny and temperate when the rest of the country is under snow! I am walking distance to  More

   |    Reply

I have lived in this city for 4 decades, and it is never been worse than it is now. It is a dangerous disgusting hell hole. Between the crime, the homeless that are not  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Monica

Reviews for Dana Point    8 Reviews

Over 11 years ago

Climate is one of the world's  More

   |    Reply

Nice place to live. Mediterranean climate. Too many people, high cost of living, California taxes high. Ocean is  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

We are in the California Riviera...but there's a price! This is a great place to  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Dana Point


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.