2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Chapel Hill, NC vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Chapel Hill?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 4.0 years older than in Chapel Hill.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Chapel Hill?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 131.0% more expensive than Chapel Hill housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Chapel Hill?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 3.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Chapel Hill.

Things to do in Chapel Hill?
Chapel Hill, North Carolina is an energetic city located in Orange County. This bustling community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available in Coker Arboretum and Battle Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Chapel Hill their home.

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.

 Chapel Hill, NCSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$77,037  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$550,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.67  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Chapel Hill    16 Reviews

Between my wife and I, we've lived in Raleigh, Cary, Durham, and Chapel Hill, and it's Chapel Hill we prefer. Franklin Street is always lively with an eclectic mix of  More

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I am not sure if Bert has actually been to the Triangle, but for starters, Durham, as Chapel Hill residents know and envy, is and has been for 5 yrs now a vibrant  More

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someone told me they live in the hills/mountains right near chapel hill, and the summers are much cooler there, while the town itself is easily accessible. is this  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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