Monterey, CA vs Santa Barbara, CA
Side-by-side comparison of housing, income, commute, safety, and quality of life.
Score Snapshot
No universal winner
Scores summarize the published model. Use the objective metric differences below and your own priorities to choose.
Monterey
62.7
#1834 nationally
Santa Barbara
59.8
#1944 nationally
Monterey leads in crime level (10.5 vs 17.8). Monterey leads in cost of living index (192 vs 225). Santa Barbara leads in walk score (61 vs 53).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | Monterey, CA | Santa Barbara, CA |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 62.7 (#1834) | 59.8 (#1944) |
| Population | 29,116 | 86,499 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $1,179,065 | $1,848,325 |
| Median Household Income | $98,003 | $98,346 |
| Average Commute | 19.1 min | 17.6 min |
| Walk Score | 53 | 61 |
| Crime Level | 10.5 | 17.8 |
| School Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Cost of Living Index | 192 | 225 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | D+29.9 | D+26.7 |
D-
62.7 Score
Monterey, CA
Small California city with local appeal
Median Home
$1,179,065
Population
29,116
Crime
Moderate-High
Walk Score
53
Pacific
View Monterey, CA →
F
59.8 Score
Santa Barbara, CA
California community balancing growth and livability
Median Home
$1,848,325
Population
86,499
Crime
High
Walk Score
61
Pacific
View Santa Barbara, CA →
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