Let the numbers do the talking.
Oakland, CA vs Santa Monica, CA
Oakland, CA vs Santa Monica, CA: What the data shows
Oakland, CA is in Oakland, CA while Santa Monica, CA is in Santa Monica, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Oakland, CA is the more affordable option at $1,097,200 median — $646,600 less than Santa Monica, CA's $1,743,800. WYLT rates Oakland, CA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Santa Monica, CA as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Oakland, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Santa Monica, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Oakland, CA has Low flood risk and Santa Monica, CA has Low flood risk.
Santa Monica, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Oakland, CA scores 75/100 (very walkable) versus Santa Monica, CA's 81/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Oakland, CA rates 5/10 and Santa Monica, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Oakland, CA | Santa Monica, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $1.1M ✓ Lower price | $1.74M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $107K ✓ Higher income | $90K |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 75/100 | 81/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 48/100 | 56/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 | 80/100 |
| Commute | 19 min ✓ Shorter commute | 22 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsArtistsStudents | High‑income professionalsStudents with strong budgetsRetirees looking for beach lifestyle |
Bottom line
Share this comparison