2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Albany, OR vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Albany?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 6.9 years younger than in Albany.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Albany?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 223.9% more expensive than Albany housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Albany?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 2.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Albany.

Things to do in Albany?
Albany, OR is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley. Situated along the mighty Willamette River, Albany offers pristine natural beauty, a thriving cultural scene, award-winning restaurants and breweries, and much more! It is home to historic sites like The Monteith House Museum and Thomas Kay Woolen Mill, as well as modern attractions such as the Linn County Expo Center and Discovery Garden. With something for everyone from outdoors lovers to art enthusiasts, Albany has something for everyone!

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.

 Albany, ORSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$65,587  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$392,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.61  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Albany    25 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

I only lived in Albany 1 year. But I found the weather to be quite Mild. The Housing more affordable than Corvallis. I was shocked to find that nearby Corvallis gets  More

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I've been living in Albany about 4.5 years. Moved up from Southern California to escape high home prices and the cost of living and clogged freeways. Now it's not sunny  More

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Over 4 years ago

Ten months and ongoing in Albany, from the SF Bay Area. Much less crime here, much quieter here, more courteous and sane drivers here by far. We have been able to  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 5 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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