2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Mission Viejo, CA vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Mission Viejo?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 16.7 years younger than in Mission Viejo.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Mission Viejo?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 34.7% more expensive than Mission Viejo housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Mission Viejo?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 4.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Mission Viejo.

Things to do in Mission Viejo?
Mission Viejo, California is a suburban city located in Orange County. It's peaceful atmosphere provides plenty of opportunities to explore attractions such as the Mission Viejo Mall and the OC Zoo at Irvine Park. After exploring, sample delicious food from eateries like Kabab House or Taste of India. With its many sights and exciting experiences, Mission Viejo is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation!

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.

 Mission Viejo, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$126,320  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$943,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time27.76  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Mission Viejo    22 Reviews

Beautiful, but for the wealthy. If you make less than 150K, you won't be able to afford to live here. Even for Southern California, MV is off-the-chart expensive. A  More

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Over 12 years ago

Mission Viejo does not charge a business license tax for businesses located in the community and home-based businesses are allowed under current zoning laws as long as  More

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Please give me your advisese i need to know how is the best place to live near los angeles, safe, earthquakes, snakes, best schools, no racism, etc...,i donĀ“t know  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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