Let the numbers do the talking.
Pasadena, CA vs Santa Monica, CA
Pasadena, CA vs Santa Monica, CA: What the data shows
Pasadena, CA is in Pasadena, CA while Santa Monica, CA is in Santa Monica, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Pasadena, CA is the more affordable option at $1,053,000 median — $690,800 less than Santa Monica, CA's $1,743,800. WYLT rates Pasadena, CA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Santa Monica, CA as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend.
Pasadena, CA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Pasadena, CA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Santa Monica, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Pasadena, CA has Low flood risk and Santa Monica, CA has Low flood risk.
Santa Monica, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Pasadena, CA scores 10/100 (car-dependent) versus Santa Monica, CA's 81/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Pasadena, CA rates 5/10 and Santa Monica, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Pasadena, CA | Santa Monica, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $1.05M ✓ Lower price | $1.74M |
| Median Rent | $4K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $123K ✓ Higher income | $90K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 10/100 | 81/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 56/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 15 min ✓ Shorter commute | 22 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesProfessionalsYoung adults | High‑income professionalsStudents with strong budgetsRetirees looking for beach lifestyle |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
Share this comparison