2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Parker, CO vs Santa Cruz, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Parker?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 6.6 years younger than in Parker.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Parker?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 89.9% more expensive than Parker housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Parker?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 3.4 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Parker.

Things to do in Parker?
Parker, Colorado is a vibrant community located just south of Denver. From luxury shopping and fine dining to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in Parker. Visitors can take advantage of the nearby trails, golf courses and other outdoor activities such as horseback riding and stand-up paddle boarding. Meanwhile, culture enthusiasts can explore the area’s many art galleries, museums and festivals. Furthermore, numerous businesses provide plenty of employment opportunities while families benefit from quality schools ranging from pre-K through college prep courses. No wonder why Parker continues to be one of Colorado’s most sought-after places to live!

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.

 Parker, COSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$120,075  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$669,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.83  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Parker    28 Reviews

I'm not a CO native. I didn't move here from CA. We've been here over 16 years. We are looking to move. Now that I said that, I'll say this: This is a nice small  More

   |    Reply

I'm not a CO native. I didn't move here from CA. We've been here 16 years. We are looking to move. Now that I said that, I'll say this: This is a nice small CITY but  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

This is my 15th year in Parker, CO. Very nice initially. VERY EXPENSIVE to buy a home now. I rented all this time and despite making over $100,000 per year, cannot  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Parker

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Cruz


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.