Let the numbers do the talking.
Davis, CA vs Pasadena, CA
Davis, CA vs Pasadena, CA: What the data shows
Davis, CA is in Davis, CA while Pasadena, CA is in Pasadena, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Davis, CA is the more affordable option at $834,200 median — $218,800 less than Pasadena, CA's $1,053,000. WYLT rates Davis, CA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Pasadena, CA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Pasadena, CA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Davis, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Pasadena, CA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Davis, CA has Low flood risk and Pasadena, CA has Low flood risk.
Davis, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Davis, CA scores 23/100 (car-dependent) versus Pasadena, CA's 10/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Davis, CA rates 5/10 and Pasadena, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Davis, CA | Pasadena, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $834K ✓ Lower price | $1.05M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $4K |
| Median Income | $69K | $123K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 23/100 ✓ More walkable | 10/100 |
| Transit Score | 32/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 23 min | 15 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | College StudentsFamilies with childrenRemote workers | FamiliesProfessionalsYoung adults |
Bottom line
If affordability and bike-friendliness are top priorities for you, Davis might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you're willing to pay a premium and prioritize walkability and proximity to job opportunities, Pasadena is a more desirable option. Overall, Davis is a "good for now" neighborhood that's suitable for some, but Pasadena offers more benefits for others.
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