2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Mill Valley, CA vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Mill Valley?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 18.9 years younger than in Mill Valley.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Mill Valley?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 30.0% less expensive than Mill Valley housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Mill Valley?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 7.4 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Mill Valley.

Things to do in Mill Valley?
Mill Valley, CA is an independent city located in Marin County northwest from San Quentin inhabited by approximately thirteen thousand people. Mill Valley produces lots of venues like the California State Indian Museum providing locals or tourists with the perfect opportunity to appreciate nature through various activities on a stop here! Additionally there are multiple restaurants and shops around this area making it something distinctive all year round!

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.

 Mill Valley, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$179,529  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,814,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time30.87  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Mill Valley    7 Reviews

I lived in southern Marin County for 20 years and lived it. Just moved  More

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Over 15 years ago

Mill Valley is a perfect place to live and raise a family, if you don't mind a cost of living index of 233. Don't distress - go mountain biking or hiking with  More

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Over 16 years ago

Good weather all year around. Great public schools. Cost of living very high. Crime low wonderful outdoor activities nearby like hiking, beaches,  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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