2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Lacey, WA vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Lacey?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 8.1 years younger than in Lacey.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Lacey?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 171.6% more expensive than Lacey housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Lacey?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 2.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Lacey.

Things to do in Lacey?
Lacey, Washington is a city located in the south Puget Sound region of the state. It's situated on the shores of nearby lakes and rivers, making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreational activities. With just over 42,000 residents living in the city, there is still plenty to do here. From shopping to restaurants, Lacey has some of the best dining and retail options around. The city also boasts great schools and universities, parks and trails, as well as plenty of cultural attractions such as museums and annual events like its Traces of Sun Festival. With so much to offer, Lacey is definitely an ideal place to call 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.

 Lacey, WASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$75,059  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$467,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Lacey    7 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

My husband is in the military and so we move from place to place. Lacey is about 20 minutes drive from Joint Base Lewis Mcchord. The area is really nice because it is a  More

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Over 15 years ago

I'm just ready to move someplace where the sun shines more, it's warmer and  More

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Over 16 years ago

There is currently construction on a trail that connects from Lacey to Tummwater. The trail used to be an abandoned railroad. I'm very happy because 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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