2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Gainesville, FL vs St. Petersburg, FL

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Highlights
Are people in St. Petersburg older or younger than people in Gainesville?
- The Median Age in St. Petersburg is 16.1 years older than in Gainesville.

Are housing costs cheaper in St. Petersburg or Gainesville?
- St. Petersburg housing costs are 27.7% more expensive than Gainesville housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, St. Petersburg or Gainesville?
- The average commute for residents of St. Petersburg is 5.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Gainesville.

Things to do in Gainesville?
Gainesville, Florida is a lively city in Alachua County. Home to the University of Florida, this city is known for its vibrant college town atmosphere. With plenty of shops and restaurants along bustling downtown streets and nearby outdoor activities like canoeing and kayaking at Paynes Prairie State Park, there's no shortage of things to do here. Gainesville also has great schools and universities, as well as several parks where visitors can take in the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking for an exciting night out or a peaceful afternoon in nature, Gainesville is sure to have something for everyone.

Things to do in St. Petersburg?
St. Petersburg, Florida is an affluent city known for its year-round sunshine and beautiful beaches. From art museums such as the Salvador Dali Museum to professional sports at Tropicana Field, there's something for everyone in this bustling city. Visit the renowned Sunken Gardens or take a stroll through the lovely Vinoy Park. Enjoy the coastal cuisine of one of the many seafood restaurants downtown or check out any of the vibrant music venues. With its diverse population and excellent schools, St. Petersburg is easily known as a great place to live and visit!

 Gainesville, FLSt. Petersburg, FLUnited States
 Population  Unlock258,245329,725,481
 Median Income$40,937  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$271,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.71  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Gainesville    60 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

I've lived here most of my life. It's changed a lot, and a lot of the locals don't like it. Because it's home to one of the largest universities in the country, we see a  More

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Lovely diverse city! People is nice and there is always something to do. Outdoors activities are awesome! The springs are beautiful and there are plenty of hiking  More

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Gainesville has the highest taxes and electrical rates in the state. The city is run by a bunch of liberals who have no idea what they are doing. Crime and homelessness  More

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Reviews for St. Petersburg    56 Reviews

I grew up here (1968). All the people who have posted how awful it is are not going to be happy anywhere because they see what they see. Thats the evolution of self as  More

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I moved here because my fiance was going to school here and two rents didn't make sense. Visiting was always great! However, after living here for a couple years it's  More

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Over 6 years ago

True the location is good, and during the Winters, it's really nice in St. Pete, but the Summers and brutally steaming HOT, and the St. Pete Police don't do their job  More

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