2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Taos, NM vs Monterey, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Monterey older or younger than people in Taos?
- The Median Age in Monterey is 15.2 years younger than in Taos.

Are housing costs cheaper in Monterey or Taos?
- Monterey housing costs are 164.2% more expensive than Taos housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Monterey or Taos?
- The average commute for residents of Monterey is 4.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Taos.

Things to do in Taos?
Taos, New Mexico is an incredible place to live. Nestled in the northern part of the state near the Rocky Mountains, Taos offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and deep forests. The landscape is breathtaking and inviting. There's a vibrant community that values creativity, diversity, and sustainability. The city has a wide variety of restaurants, unique shops, art galleries, museums, and outdoor activities to enjoy year-round. The locals are incredibly welcoming and friendly. There's a rich cultural heritage in Taos that you can explore through its many festivals and events. With its beautiful scenery, diverse culture and friendly people, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Taos their home!

Things to do in Monterey?
Monterey, CA is an iconic beach city located on the Monterey Peninsula of California's central coast. This picturesque coastal community offers stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, fabulous restaurants and galleries, plus numerous other recreational activities.

 Taos, NMMonterey, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock30,014329,725,481
 Median Income$37,083  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$386,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.18  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Taos    6 Reviews

I’ve traveled to many places in my lifetime. New Mexico is a favorite. Typically we stay in The Inn of The Governor’s in Santa Fe. (It’s an awesome place.) This  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

Taos is beautiful with much to offer. However, housing is very expensive. Because much of the town's economy focuses on tourism, there are few jobs available in other  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

Taos has a diverse culture which has helped create a diverse art market with over 100 galleries and studios. From traditional native arts to contemporary, Taos has it  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Taos

Reviews for Monterey    21 Reviews

Over 8 years ago

The Monterey city area is an excellent place to live and one of the few California locales where it's relatively safe to raise a family. If I could no longer live here I  More

   |    Reply

I grew up on the Monterey Peninsula and had to leave to climb out of poverty. The median income is $35,000 and outside of the military, the jobs are mostly service  More

   |    Reply

My husband and I are just crazy about Monterey. I wonder if we take housing expenses (mortgage or rent) out of the picture, is Monterey still a very expensive city to  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Monterey


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.