Monterey, CA vs Vista, 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
Vista
63.3
#1784 nationally
Monterey leads in average commute (19.1 min vs 27.1 min). Vista leads in cost of living index (158 vs 192). Vista leads in crime level (8.7 vs 10.5).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | Monterey, CA | Vista, CA |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 62.7 (#1834) | 63.3 (#1784) |
| Population | 29,116 | 98,344 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $1,179,065 | $879,716 |
| Median Household Income | $98,003 | $88,715 |
| Average Commute | 19.1 min | 27.1 min |
| Walk Score | 53 | 46 |
| Crime Level | 10.5 | 8.7 |
| School Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Cost of Living Index | 192 | 158 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | D+29.9 | D+16.8 |
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 →
D
63.3 Score
Vista, CA
California community balancing growth and livability
Median Home
$879,716
Population
98,344
Crime
Moderate
Walk Score
46
Pacific
View Vista, CA →