2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Mesa, AZ vs Santa Cruz, CA

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

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Mesa?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 198.4% more expensive than Mesa housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Mesa?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 1.4 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Mesa.

Things to do in Mesa?
Mesa, Arizona is a vibrant city filled with activities and attractions for all ages. Visit the Arizona Museum of Natural History or take in a show at the Hohokam Stadium. Head out to Usery Mountain Regional Park and explore some of the most stunning views in Arizona, or stay downtown and experience Mesa's culture and nightlife. Whether you're looking for outdoor recreation, history, culture, or just a relaxing retreat from city life, Mesa is sure to provide it all!

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.

 Mesa, AZSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$65,725  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$425,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time24.84  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Mesa    61 Reviews

Mesa is a really good city despite some trouble with Superstition Springs and the failure that is Fiesta Mall, there is nice areas throughout and some areas that need to  More

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Over 2 years ago

As someone who was born in Mesa and has lived here in the 85210 in Dobson Ranch for the last 13 years after moving out from Chandler. I can tell you that most of the  More

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I’m a native to Arizona and growing up here has taught me that people just don’t care, and the Mormon community is huge! It’s normal in the state of AZ for kids to start  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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