Let the numbers do the talking.
Davis, CA vs San Mateo, CA
Davis, CA vs San Mateo, CA: What the data shows
Davis, CA is in Davis, CA while San Mateo, CA is in San Mateo, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Davis, CA is the more affordable option at $834,200 median — $259,200 less than San Mateo, CA's $1,093,400. WYLT rates Davis, CA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and San Mateo, CA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
San Mateo, CA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Davis, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. San Mateo, CA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Davis, CA has Low flood risk and San Mateo, CA has Low flood risk.
San Mateo, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Davis, CA scores 23/100 (car-dependent) versus San Mateo, CA's 53/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Davis, CA rates 5/10 and San Mateo, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Davis, CA | San Mateo, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $834K ✓ Lower price | $1.09M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $69K | $118K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 23/100 | 53/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 32/100 ✓ Better transit | 22/100 |
| Bike Score | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable | 54/100 |
| Commute | 23 min ✓ Shorter commute | 26 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 ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | College StudentsFamilies with childrenRemote workers | Families with school prioritiesFirst‑time home buyers looking for a good commuteAsian community members |
Bottom line
For families with children who prioritize a solid public-school system, San Mateo's proximity to top-rated schools and its slightly more walkable environment make it a better choice. However, for college students, remote workers, and those seeking a more bike-friendly lifestyle, Davis, despite being less walkable, may be a more affordable and convenient option. Ultimately, San Mateo is ideal for families and first-time homeowners willing to pay a premium, while Davis is geared towards those seeking a more student-oriented or bike-friendly community.
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