2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Plaines, IL vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Des Plaines?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 13.3 years younger than in Des Plaines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Des Plaines?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 374.9% more expensive than Des Plaines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Des Plaines?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 4.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Des Plaines.

Things to do in Des Plaines?
Des Plaines, Illinois is a vibrant and thriving city located just outside of Chicago. This bustling town offers a unique mix of small town charm and big city energy with plenty of shops, restaurants, parks, and attractions. There are also several concert venues, theatres, and museums to explore while in Des Plaines. Visitors can also enjoy a wide array of activities from antiquing to golfing if they're looking for something more active. Whatever you choose to do there's no doubt that Des Plaines will make your stay enjoyable!

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.

 Des Plaines, ILSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$79,453  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$267,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time28.35  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Des Plaines    4 Reviews

Over 15 years ago

low  More

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Over 16 years ago

The historic center of des plaines is also downtown. Fairly easy commute to Chicago. The metra is right there. Also there is the Des Plaines public library with a great  More

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Over 18 years ago

Changing of the seasons is good. But it's too cold for too  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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