2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Watsonville, CA vs Arcata, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Arcata older or younger than people in Watsonville?
- The Median Age in Arcata is 4.2 years younger than in Watsonville.

Are housing costs cheaper in Arcata or Watsonville?
- Arcata housing costs are 44.7% less expensive than Watsonville housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Arcata or Watsonville?
- The average commute for residents of Arcata is 6.8 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Watsonville.

Things to do in Watsonville?
Watsonville, California is a vibrant city located on the central coast of California. Nestled between Monterey Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains, Watsonville offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. From its wide variety of parks, trails and lakes to historic buildings and colorful murals, Watsonville has something for everyone. Visitors can explore its thriving farmers markets, galleries and restaurants or take in the spectacular views from cliffside beaches. With its friendly people and vibrant culture, Watsonville is a great place to call home or visit for an unforgettable experience.

Things to do in Arcata?
Nestled on California’s North Coast just south of Eureka, Arcata offers visitors an array of natural beauty from redwood forests to rugged coastline along with world-class dining experiences like the Alice Copper Restaurant & Brewery. The city hosts a variety of cultural attractions year round from art galleries to live music venues making it a great destination for everyone.

 Watsonville, CAArcata, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock19,038329,725,481
 Median Income$67,007  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock26.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$803,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.84  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Watsonville    3 Reviews

We live in a nice area and love the climate but cost of living have gotten way out of hand. Vandals walk around smashing windows over and over without getting  More

   |    Reply

the cost of housing is slightly more affordable (just slightly). Close to the beach and near perfect weather. Especially during summer when it was 107 in San Jose' it  More

   |    Reply

Over 19 years ago

Nice neighborhood, but since moving here we have not felt a sense of  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Watsonville

Reviews for Arcata    17 Reviews

Pros: Nature hikes Cons: One of highest crime rates in the nation. Opioid epidemic going on (you’ll regularly witness drug deals and ppl doing drugs) No  More

   |    Reply

It takes a special set of preferences to select Arcata. Is this you? - You love clouds and fog. You are happy if you see the sun maybe 10-20 times a year. - Chilly  More

   |    Reply

Over 11 years ago

I've lived in Humboldt for over 30 yrs and know all the areas well. Arcata is the jewel of Humboldt due to having a university and many liberal creative people. There is  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Arcata


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.