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

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Brea?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 11.3 years younger than in Brea.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Brea?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 34.9% more expensive than Brea housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Brea?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 10.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Brea.

Things to do in Brea?
Brea, California is a city located in Orange County that has become known for its entertainment options including Downtown Brea's Main Street Promenade and Brea Mall Shopping Center.

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.

 Brea, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$108,721  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$942,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time33.43  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Brea    10 Reviews

I have lived in Orange County and Los Angeles County for over 20 years. The cost of living has prompted 3 friends to move to the Central Valley, Oregon and Washington  More

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Over 12 years ago

I loved living here in Brea, CA for over 17 years. It is a great community. For being a small north Orange County city it has a lot to offer. Schools are really  More

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Great city in N. Orange County. Affordable with lots of  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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