2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Aptos, CA vs Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Rancho Santa Margarita older or younger than people in Aptos?
- The Median Age in Rancho Santa Margarita is 13.8 years younger than in Aptos.

Are housing costs cheaper in Rancho Santa Margarita or Aptos?
- Rancho Santa Margarita housing costs are 32.8% less expensive than Aptos housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Rancho Santa Margarita or Aptos?
- The average commute for residents of Rancho Santa Margarita is 1.1 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Aptos.

Things to do in Aptos?
Aptos, CA is an idyllic coastal town located in Santa Cruz County. Featuring stunning views of the Monterey Bay and a laid-back lifestyle, Aptos offers its residents a unique and enjoyable experience. The city boasts white sand beaches, rolling hills, and redwood forests – all just minutes away from downtown. Residents of this charming community are also privy to a wide variety of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues throughout the area. With its mild climate and access to nearby cities like Santa Cruz and Watsonville, Aptos is a great place to call home for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities or simply relaxing with friends, Aptos has something for everyone.

Things to do in Rancho Santa Margarita?
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA resides within Orange County’s metropolitan limits providing direct access attractions events that take place surrounding area due its prime location as well population size close 48 thousand people makes perfect spot anyone looking exciting city life without having live too far from Los Angeles other Southern California cities!

 Aptos, CARancho Santa Margarita, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock48,190329,725,481
 Median Income$116,583  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,284,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time31.21  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Aptos    4 Reviews

Over 10 years ago

I have owned a home in Aptos for 10 years and cannot thing of anywhere else I would rather live. I have lived in San Diego, Orange County, Half Moon Bay, and other  More

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Over 11 years ago

Well, Aptos is in Santa Cruz County, California. I love the entire county of Santa Cruz. The weather is fantastic. We have both the beautiful Monterey Bay with lots  More

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Over 15 years ago

We've lived in Aptos/Rio Del Mar for many years and it's a very lovely, peaceful village far from the rat race . The views of the ocean are stunning and the shopping in  More

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Reviews for Rancho Santa Margarita    13 Reviews

This page provides little information on RSM. I see they keep describing the area as "outside of Los Angeles." Culturally, it is so far from Los Angeles (I lived in LA,  More

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Over 11 years ago

The weather here is amazing. We get a few hot days in the summer but it cools down in the evening. I love being able to sleep with the windows  More

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This is the best place to live in South Orange County with mild temperatures, low crime, great schools and family orientated. RSM is a city that sits in a pocket backing  More

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