2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Helena, MT vs Santa Cruz, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Helena?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 10.9 years younger than in Helena.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Helena?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 188.9% more expensive than Helena housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Helena?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 11.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Helena.

Things to do in Helena?
Helena MT rests near Lewis and Clark National Forest which makes it an ideal spot for outdoor activities ranging from hiking trails to skiing during winter months plus museums showcasing local history!

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.

 Helena, MTSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$59,712  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$439,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time12.29  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Helena    17 Reviews

I spent 6 months living on a ranch in the Helena valley. This was during the population boom Montana experienced after covid. Helena has some great mountain biking  More

   |    Reply

Over 3 years ago

We transplanted from Southern California 3 years ago and have never looked back! Living in the small unincorporated town of York Montana located in the Helena nation  More

   |    Reply

Over 5 years ago

I lived here for 16 years. It is a great place to grow  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Helena

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.