2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Maple Valley, WA vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Maple Valley?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 7.3 years younger than in Maple Valley.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Maple Valley?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 72.5% more expensive than Maple Valley housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Maple Valley?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 15.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Maple Valley.

Things to do in Maple Valley?
Maple Valley, Washington is a vibrant rural community located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains boasting stunning natural scenery with its rolling hills and picturesque valleys. It offers plenty of activities for nature lovers to enjoy, from hiking along the Cedar River Trail to skiing at Echo Mountain. Visitors can also explore local attractions like Cedar Grove Park or shop at nearby malls like Kent Station Shopping Center. With easy access to bustling cities like Seattle and Tacoma, Maple Valley makes an ideal destination for visitors seeking an unforgettable experience close to urban amenities.

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.

 Maple Valley, WASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$125,092  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$736,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time38.75  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Maple Valley    3 Reviews

We moved to Maple Valley 14 years ago from Kent, mostly for the school district. We have been very happy with the decision. Most of the state's best school districts  More

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Over 15 years ago

Quiet, beautiful, lush greenery and just 30 miles to Seattle. Take a load off and stay awhile.  More

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Being a resident of Maple Valley for most of my life. I know I wouldn't be where I am if it weren't for the teachers of Tahoma School District #409. Don't let the crime  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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