2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Willows, CA vs Merced, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Merced older or younger than people in Willows?
- The Median Age in Merced is 1.7 years younger than in Willows.

Are housing costs cheaper in Merced or Willows?
- Merced housing costs are 23.2% more expensive than Willows housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Merced or Willows?
- The average commute for residents of Merced is 0.4 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Willows.

Things to do in Willows?
Willows, CA is a small town located in the heart of Northern California. It is known for its peaceful and rural atmosphere, as well as its friendly locals. The town provides a great environment for families and individuals to enjoy life with its many activities, such as shopping downtown, visiting local farmers markets, attending special events, and exploring nature preserves. Willows has a low crime rate and great schools that provide quality education for children. Summers can be hot but are generally mild and pleasant. Winters can be cold but bring beautiful snow scenes to enjoy outdoors. There is something for everyone in Willows--from its vibrant culture to its countryside charm--making it an ideal place to call home.

Things to do in Merced?
Merced, California is a mid-sized city located in Central Valley known for its proximity to Yosemite National Park or Lake Yosemite making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation.

 Willows, CAMerced, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock85,993329,725,481
 Median Income$53,250  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$302,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.96  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Willows    1 Reviews

I’ve lived in Willows for three years. I love my house. I love the space and natural beauty in the area. My love stops there. Crime is terrible- drugs and thefts.  More

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Reviews for Merced    44 Reviews

Merced is totally slept on - you want a little bit of everything CA has to offer, at a fraction of the price of other CA cities? Merced is the place to go. The town  More

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Over 5 years ago

Good place to live. More affordable than most of california. The city is growing and there is alot of business and growth here. Moved from the Bay area years ago and  More

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Great place to live. Lots of progress and changes coming to the city. Great place to raise a family. UC Merced is expanding and businesses are investing. Downtown is  More

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