2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Monica, CA vs Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Carmel-by-the-Sea older or younger than people in Santa Monica?
- The Median Age in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 22.2 years older than in Santa Monica.

Are housing costs cheaper in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Santa Monica?
- Carmel-by-the-Sea housing costs are 15.6% more expensive than Santa Monica housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Santa Monica?
- The average commute for residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea is 3.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Santa Monica.

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!

Things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Living in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is like living in paradise. With its beautiful white sand beaches, stunning ocean views, and colorful gardens, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this picturesque city. Its unique shops, restaurants and galleries provide visitors with a unique shopping experience while its numerous parks and trails offer plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. The climate is mild year round, making it the perfect spot for vacationers or those looking for a permanent home. The quaint downtown area of Carmel-by-the-Sea provides a relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of the most desirable places to live on the Central Coast.

 Santa Monica, CACarmel-by-the-Sea, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock3,296329,725,481
 Median Income$99,847  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock63.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,656,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.18  Unlock26.38
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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Reviews for Carmel-By-The-Sea    3 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

Climate, cost &  More

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carmel has about 60 vacation homes and a dense cottage-y downtown. basically it is a tourist trap cental business district and a bunch of vacation rental homes. the  More

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Over 17 years ago

Liberals have run me out of town. The political is so overwhelming I am looking to relocate. However, if you are an aging hippie with a great deal of money you will be  More

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