2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Boulder Creek, CA vs Santa Cruz, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Boulder Creek?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 17.5 years younger than in Boulder Creek.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Boulder Creek?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 69.6% more expensive than Boulder Creek housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Boulder Creek?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 13.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Boulder Creek.

Things to do in Boulder Creek?
Living in Boulder Creek, CA is a fantastic experience. It is a small town with a population of just over 3,000 people, but it has so much to offer. The climate here is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities year-round. From hiking in the nearby redwoods to kayaking on the river, there's something for everyone. There are also great restaurants, cafes and shopping options as well as art galleries, local music events and festivals. The community is close knit and friendly, making it a great place to raise children or settle down and retire.

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.

 Boulder Creek, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$101,207  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$749,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time36.79  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Boulder Creek    3 Reviews

Over 16 years ago

even with Prop 13 property taxes are high. My taxes have incresed from $1200 a year in 1990 to over $8000 a year now. Coffee is $1.50 a cup. Milk $3.50 a  More

   |    Reply

A wonderful place if you love the forest. Plenty of activities, camping,hiking,fishing and mountain dining. Very close to Santa Cruz beaches, restaurants, entertainment  More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

Boulder Creek, CA is in the Santa Cruz mountains near San Jose, CA. It is a beautiful, woodsy mountain area with wonderful climate. It's hard to believe that the overly  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Boulder Creek

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.