2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Aptos, CA vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Aptos?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 24.5 years younger than in Aptos.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Aptos?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 1.1% less expensive than Aptos housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Aptos?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 7.8 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 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.

 Aptos, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$116,583  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,284,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time31.21  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Aptos    4 Reviews

Over 9 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 10 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 14 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 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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