Home / Select Cities  /  2024 Comparing Santa Monica, CA vs. Santa Cruz, CA

2024 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Monica, CA vs Santa Cruz, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Santa Monica?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 12.4 years younger than in Santa Monica.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Santa Monica?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 23.3% less expensive than Santa Monica housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Santa Monica?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 2.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Santa Monica.

Things to do in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica, California is a vibrant beach city located in Los Angeles County. This popular destination offers something for everyone, from world-class shopping and dining to outdoor activities like surfing and biking along the beachside path. Cultural attractions like the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium and the nearby Getty Villa make it easy to explore the area's history and art. Nightlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the countless bars, nightclubs, and lounges scattered throughout town. With its many attractions and activities, Santa Monica is sure to make your vacation unforgettable!

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.

 Santa Monica, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population92,82862,714329,725,481
 Median Income$99,847$96,217$69,021
 Median Age41.42938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,656,900$1,270,800$338,100
 Unemployment Rate7.9%4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.1823.4526.38

View More Data >

Reviews for Santa Monica    24 Reviews

I moved here to Santa Monica over 10 years ago from Oklahoma City. I was surprised to see that Oklahoma City was ranked higher than Santa Monica on best places. I  More

   |    Reply

I've lived in Santa Monica for over 30 years. It's a Mediterranean climate--sunny and temperate when the rest of the country is under snow! I am walking distance to  More

   |    Reply

I have lived in this city for 4 decades, and it is never been worse than it is now. It is a dangerous disgusting hell hole. Between the crime, the homeless that are not  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Monica

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Cruz

 Most Recent Searches On Compare Cities
COMPARE COST OF LIVING
Compare Santa Monica, California Cost of Living vs Santa Cruz, California Cost of Living: Taxes, Childcare, Groceries, Health...
Compare Now


ZIPS IN SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA
90405 90403 90404 90402 90401
ZIPS IN SANTA CRUZ, CALIFORNIA
95060 95064

PREMIUM SUBSCRIPTION

Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.

Try Now