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

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Hayward?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 7.6 years younger than in Hayward.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Hayward?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 58.3% more expensive than Hayward housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Hayward?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 9.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Hayward.

Things to do in Hayward?
Hayward, California is a vibrant city located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Home to many outdoor attractions such as Don Castro Regional Park and Garin Regional Park, visitors can explore nature at its finest when visiting Hayward. There are also plenty of cultural attractions including galleries and museums. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Hayward has something for everyone!

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.

 Hayward, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$98,837  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$802,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time32.42  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Hayward    4 Reviews

I've lived in Hayward for 20 years. Traditionally a working  More

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Hetchy Hechy water is very pure,the summers are about 78f..warm enough. Winters are sunny for the most part and by average.One University and one College in this small  More

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Over 11 years ago

convenient BART and bus if you have no  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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