2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Pasadena, CA vs Santa Monica, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Monica older or younger than people in Pasadena?
- The Median Age in Santa Monica is 2.3 years older than in Pasadena.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Monica or Pasadena?
- Santa Monica housing costs are 61.8% more expensive than Pasadena housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Monica or Pasadena?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Monica is 1.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Pasadena.

Things to do in Pasadena?
Pasadena, California is a vibrant city located in Los Angeles County. This welcoming community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the stunning Norton Simon Museum of Art or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at the Rose Bowl and Old Town Pasadena. With its excellent school system, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Pasadena their home.

Things to do in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica, California is a vibrant beach city located in Los Angeles County. This popular destination offers something for everyone, from world-class shopping and dining to outdoor activities like surfing and biking along the beachside path. Cultural attractions like the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium and the nearby Getty Villa make it easy to explore the area's history and art. Nightlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the countless bars, nightclubs, and lounges scattered throughout town. With its many attractions and activities, Santa Monica is sure to make your vacation unforgettable!

 Pasadena, CASanta Monica, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock92,828329,725,481
 Median Income$89,661  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,023,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time28.09  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Pasadena    19 Reviews

Pasadena is a little slice of the world in the foothills above the San Gabriel Valley. It has everything you could want. Check out my video on the cost of living in  More

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Over 10 years ago

The weather in Pasadena, CA is rather pleasant. It does not get cold here, it used to be around the first two weeks of December it could go down to 32-28 F, only a few  More

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Over 11 years ago

Great place to live for all ages and enjoy mostly sunny  More

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Reviews for Santa Monica    24 Reviews

I moved here to Santa Monica over 10 years ago from Oklahoma City. I was surprised to see that Oklahoma City was ranked higher than Santa Monica on best places. I  More

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I've lived in Santa Monica for over 30 years. It's a Mediterranean climate--sunny and temperate when the rest of the country is under snow! I am walking distance to  More

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I have lived in this city for 4 decades, and it is never been worse than it is now. It is a dangerous disgusting hell hole. Between the crime, the homeless that are not  More

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