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

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Phoenix?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 5.1 years younger than in Phoenix.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Phoenix?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 207.7% more expensive than Phoenix housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Phoenix?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 2.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Phoenix.

Things to do in Phoenix?
Phoenix, Arizona is a vibrant city with a unique blend of old and new culture. It sits in the valley of the Sonoran Desert surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. With its year-round sunshine, outdoor activities, arts and cultural attractions, delicious food scene, and fascinating nightlife - Phoenix is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience something truly special. From the charming Spanish architecture to its world-class museums and festivals - Phoenix has 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.

 Phoenix, AZSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$64,927  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$413,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time25.44  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Phoenix    449 Reviews

Over 1 years ago

As someone that has worked in Phoenix for close to 20 years now. There is great areas to eat at, great opportunities for premium small businesses to set up shop and even  More

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Over 1 years ago

Phoenix is a city of potential and definitely has a bad reputation that is not completely deserved all throughout the city itself. There is tons of things to do, places  More

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Phoenix has tons of the best places to shop and eat at bar none due to it being the big city. Downtown is definitely underrated. There also is some nice new developments  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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