Let the numbers do the talking.
Davis, CA vs Los Angeles, CA
Davis, CA vs Los Angeles, CA: What the data shows
Davis, CA is in Davis, CA while Los Angeles, CA is in Los Angeles, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Davis, CA is the more affordable option at $834,200 median — $125,300 less than Los Angeles, CA's $959,500. WYLT rates Davis, CA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Los Angeles, CA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Davis, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Los Angeles, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Davis, CA has Low flood risk and Los Angeles, CA has Low flood risk.
Davis, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Davis, CA scores 23/100 (car-dependent) versus Los Angeles, CA's 4/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Davis, CA rates 5/10 and Los Angeles, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Davis, CA | Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $834K ✓ Lower price | $960K |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $69K | $88K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 23/100 ✓ More walkable | 4/100 |
| Transit Score | 32/100 ✓ Better transit | 3/100 |
| Bike Score | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 23 min | 13 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | College StudentsFamilies with childrenRemote workers | young professionalsstudentsfamilies with kids |
Bottom line
If you're a family or remote worker prioritizing schools and a smaller community, Davis, CA might be a slightly better fit despite its housing challenges. However, if you're a young professional or student with a budget to afford high costs, Los Angeles might work for you due to its faster commute and stronger public schools. Overall, Davis is a solid choice if you value a more laid-back college town atmosphere.
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