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2024 Compare Cities Overview:
San Jose, CA vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in San Jose?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 8.5 years younger than in San Jose.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or San Jose?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 7.3% more expensive than San Jose housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or San Jose?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 6.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of San Jose.

Things to do in San Jose?
San Jose, California is a vibrant city filled with attractions, activities and events for all ages. From world-class museums like the Tech Museum of Innovation, to family-friendly destinations like the Children’s Discovery Museum - there's something for everyone in this city. The colorful downtown district boasts an array of shops, restaurants and entertainment to satisfy any traveler, while outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring its nearby parks and trails. With its temperate climate, San Jose offers endless opportunities for year-round fun in the sun - making it an ideal destination for any adventure seeker!

Things to do in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz, California is an incredible city located in the heart of the Monterey Bay area. This beautiful city offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the stunning natural beaches or the charming downtown area. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Santa Cruz Boardwalk and Beach, Wilder Ranch State Park, and Seymour Marine Discovery Center. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Santa Cruz their home.

 San Jose, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population1,013,33762,714329,725,481
 Median Income$125,075$96,217$69,021
 Median Age37.52938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,184,400$1,270,800$338,100
 Unemployment Rate5.6%4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time29.423.4526.38

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Reviews for San Jose    90 Reviews

I've lived in west San Jose/Cambrian, between Los Gatos and Almaden SJ since 1997. This side of town somehow avoided the erosion of the American dream. Houses are  More

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I lived in San Jose for 40 years. That’s during the most exciting time when the Silicon Valley was booming with real technology and San Jose was ranked as the safest big  More

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Over 3 years ago

I've lived in San Jose, CA for 25 years. This city is being over run with crime and gangs. The cost of living is very high. Granted, you are so close to mountains,  More

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Reviews for Santa Cruz    44 Reviews

I lived in the Santa Cruz area for 20 years. UCSC alum. Our kids were born there. There are wonderful things about Santa Cruz, but also many serious problems that we  More

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Over 4 years ago

I have been here for four generations! My kids are the fifth. I guess that should tell you how wonderful it is here, at least for us. It's so cool to have world class  More

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I was born over the hill in San Jose area, and as a kid I loved coming over to the boardwalk. Santa Cruz has always been and always will be a town of diversity,  More

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ZIPS IN SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA
95123, 95127, 95111, 95112, 95122, 95116, 95125, 95124, 95148, 95136, 31 total
ZIPS IN SANTA CRUZ, CALIFORNIA
95060 95064

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