2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Aspen, CO vs Santa Cruz, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Aspen?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 12.2 years younger than in Aspen.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Aspen?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 57.6% less expensive than Aspen housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Aspen?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 7.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Aspen.

Things to do in Aspen?
Living in Aspen, CO is an attractive option for many due to its stunning natural beauty and plethora of outdoor activities. The town has a unique mountain culture, with an array of restaurants, shops, and other amenities catering to both locals and visitors. There is always something going on in the area, from live music to skiing and snowboarding at the famous Aspen Mountains. The summer months provide plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, whitewater rafting, and biking. Winters mean snow-capped peaks and trails for skiing and snowshoeing. No matter the season, there's always something to do in Aspen!

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.

 Aspen, COSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$89,625  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$2,994,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.33  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Aspen    6 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

I've been living in valley for 6 years. I've moved here from right before crisis. It's good place to make money for young people, yeah..it still is. Though when I  More

   |    Reply

Over 12 years ago

beautiful cold and dry weather. Colorful  More

   |    Reply

In Winter the grocery store closest to the ski lifts is so packed full of people it is really difficult to move through the store, especially if you have a cart. It  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Aspen

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 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

   |    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


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.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.