2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Nevada City, CA vs Scotts Valley, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Scotts Valley older or younger than people in Nevada City?
- The Median Age in Scotts Valley is 12.9 years younger than in Nevada City.

Are housing costs cheaper in Scotts Valley or Nevada City?
- Scotts Valley housing costs are 120.1% more expensive than Nevada City housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Scotts Valley or Nevada City?
- The average commute for residents of Scotts Valley is 3.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Nevada City.

Things to do in Nevada City?
Living in Nevada City, CA is an incredible experience. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountainous terrain and boasts a vibrant downtown area with boutique shops, restaurants, and galleries. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from rafting down the South Yuba River to skiing at Boreal Mountain Resort. The town has a charm all its own, with its unique Victorian-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and quaint coffee shops lining the main street. Residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle and easy access to outdoor activities throughout the year. It's the perfect place to relax, escape from everyday life and explore nature’s beauty.

Things to do in Scotts Valley?
Scotts Valley, California is a beautiful small town located in Santa Cruz County. Nestled between rolling hills and the Pacific Coast, Scotts Valley offers breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also many local businesses and attractions, making it a great spot for visitors and residents alike. With its mild climate and friendly atmosphere, Scotts Valley is the perfect place to live or visit.

 Nevada City, CAScotts Valley, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock12,317329,725,481
 Median Income$53,534  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock46.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$514,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time24.5  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Nevada City    6 Reviews

Over 8 years ago

I lived in Y.C Ca for 14 yrs and Nevada City became my favorite town to visit. The restaurants are great, the night life is mellow but you get a variety of music...shoos  More

   |    Reply

We are seriously considering a move to Nevada City. I have a lot of questions about what it will be like for a liberal-minded family with a teenage son. Will he find  More

   |    Reply

Over 10 years ago

I have been coming here since I was a child. I am from the bay area, the town I grew up in was small and I met my husband there. We raised our children there. The  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Nevada City

Reviews for Scotts Valley    4 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

We lived and worked in Scotts Valley for a number of years. It's a nice enough city, safe and clean unlike some areas of Santa Cruz. It's well managed and the schools  More

   |    Reply

Over 8 years ago

Great weather and small town feel but it is changing rapidly  More

   |    Reply

Over 12 years ago

Scotts Valley is an ideal, small town with many wonderful features. It's just 10 minutes from the beaches in nearby Santa Cruz yet doesn't get the wet fog because it's  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Scotts Valley


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.