Let the numbers do the talking.
Davis, CA vs San Jose, CA
Davis, CA vs San Jose, CA: What the data shows
Davis, CA is in Davis, CA while San Jose, CA is in San Jose, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Davis, CA is the more affordable option at $834,200 median — $57,300 less than San Jose, CA's $891,500. WYLT rates Davis, CA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and San Jose, CA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Davis, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. San Jose, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Davis, CA has Low flood risk and San Jose, CA has Low flood risk.
San Jose, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Davis, CA scores 23/100 (car-dependent) versus San Jose, CA's 57/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Davis, CA rates 5/10 and San Jose, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Davis, CA | San Jose, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $834K ✓ Lower price | $892K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $69K | $129K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 23/100 | 57/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 32/100 ✓ Better transit | 10/100 |
| Bike Score | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable | 60/100 |
| Commute | 23 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| 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 | Tech professionalsFamilies seeking quality schoolsRemote workers with high incomes |
Bottom line
For someone looking for an affordable college-town lifestyle with a strong education focus, Davis is the better choice. However, if you're a family with a high income seeking a good school district with a shorter commute, then San Jose might be more suitable, despite its high cost of living. Ultimately, consider Davis for its educational offerings and lower housing costs, but be prepared for limited amenities and a long commute to other major hubs.
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