Let the numbers do the talking.
Davis, CA vs Pleasant Hill, CA
Davis, CA vs Pleasant Hill, CA: What the data shows
Davis, CA is in Davis, CA while Pleasant Hill, CA is in Pleasant Hill, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Davis, CA is the more affordable option at $834,200 median — $85,800 less than Pleasant Hill, CA's $920,000. WYLT rates Davis, CA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Pleasant Hill, CA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Pleasant Hill, CA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Davis, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Pleasant Hill, CA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Davis, CA has Low flood risk and Pleasant Hill, CA has Low flood risk.
Pleasant Hill, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Davis, CA scores 23/100 (car-dependent) versus Pleasant Hill, CA's 30/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Davis, CA rates 5/10 and Pleasant Hill, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Davis, CA | Pleasant Hill, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $834K ✓ Lower price | $920K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $69K | $123K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 23/100 | 30/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 32/100 | 35/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable | 18/100 |
| Commute | 23 min ✓ Shorter commute | 42 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | College StudentsFamilies with childrenRemote workers | Families with young childrenHomebuyers seeking quality schoolsSuburban residents seeking a quiet atmosphere |
Bottom line
If you prioritize a strong sense of community, quality schools, and a suburban feel, Pleasant Hill is the better choice, despite its slightly higher median home price. However, if you're drawn to a college town atmosphere and don't mind limited walkability, Davis might be the better fit, particularly for college students, remote workers, or bike enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual preferences and priorities.
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