2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Somerville, MA vs Oakland, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Oakland older or younger than people in Somerville?
- The Median Age in Oakland is 5.1 years older than in Somerville.

Are housing costs cheaper in Oakland or Somerville?
- Oakland housing costs are 7.4% more expensive than Somerville housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Oakland or Somerville?
- The average commute for residents of Oakland is 0.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Somerville.

Things to do in Somerville?
Somerville, Massachusetts offers a unique mix between its university campuses like Harvard Square or Tufts University combined with enough shops and restaurants on Davis Square for any night owl.

Things to do in Oakland?
Oakland, California is the vibrant city at the heart of the Bay Area. With its beautiful parks and nature preserves, lively nightlife scene, and booming arts and music scene, there’s something for everyone in this diverse and thriving city. Visitors can explore historical landmarks like Jack London Square or take a stroll through Chinatown. The city also offers plenty of outdoor activities including kayaking on Lake Merritt or hiking through Redwood Regional Park. With its bustling atmosphere, great cultural attractions and countless outdoor experiences to choose from, Oakland is sure to make any visit an unforgettable one!

 Somerville, MAOakland, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock437,548329,725,481
 Median Income$108,896  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$762,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time31.57  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Somerville    3 Reviews

I've lived in Somerville/Cambridge for 10 years, the last 4.5 with my husband in Spring Hill. It really is a great place to live if you are in your 20s & 30s: it is  More

   |    Reply

Living in Somerville is OK. I'm not a 'city' person and I would rather be out in the country some place, but it's not too bad here. I'm in my early 50s and own a house.  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

we are midwest transplants to the Boston area and lucked out by finding this great little neighborhood - right on the train line, little stores and good community - we  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Somerville

Reviews for Oakland    38 Reviews

I move to Oakland 20yrs ago with high hopes, loved the geography of the city, the diversity is outstanding, and the charm of the older homes is wonderful. When I  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

Fun place to visit. Little rough is some areas- a lot to do  More

   |    Reply

I moved to Oakland because of its racial diversity in the early eighties although I've seen some ups and downs in this visually beautiful city, it has never been as bad  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Oakland


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.