2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Monica, CA vs Gulf Shores, AL

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Gulf Shores older or younger than people in Santa Monica?
- The Median Age in Gulf Shores is 8.6 years older than in Santa Monica.

Are housing costs cheaper in Gulf Shores or Santa Monica?
- Gulf Shores housing costs are 73.5% less expensive than Santa Monica housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Gulf Shores or Santa Monica?
- The average commute for residents of Gulf Shores is 1.3 minutes shorter 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 Gulf Shores?
Gulf Shores is an incorporated city located in Baldwin County, Alabama offering plenty of attractions such as exploring its multiple trails ideal for biking or jogging plus nearby Fort Morgan Beach provides amazing views close by. There are also numerous shops and eateries providing unique itemsor delicious cuisine perfectfor anyone looking to have a meal out during their visit here!

 Santa Monica, CAGulf Shores, ALUnited States
 Population  Unlock14,712329,725,481
 Median Income$99,847  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock5038.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,656,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.9%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 Gulf Shores    6 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Owned a place there for 20 years and spend a few weeks each season there. Heading back in a few weeks! Lows: Spotty internet for work. Saturday traffic. Hurricanes.  More

   |    Reply

I know that there are a few people out there that would just as soon throw rotten tomatoes at me for saying what I’m about to say, but I hate, hate, HATE living in Gulf  More

   |    Reply

Over 14 years ago

Gulf Shores offers many sunny days, compared to the rest of Baldwin County.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Gulf Shores


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.