2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Portland, ME vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Portland?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 7.9 years younger than in Portland.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Portland?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 181.7% more expensive than Portland housing costs.

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

Things to do in Portland?
Portland, Maine is a picturesque coastal city located on the shores of Casco Bay. This historic town features an array of attractions for visitors to explore such as the fascinating Victoria Mansion or the charming Portland Lighthouse. Residents here also enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at Back Cove or Willard Beach. With its top-rated schools, thriving businesses, and wide selection of recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Portland their home.

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.

 Portland, MESanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$66,109  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$451,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.13  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Portland    35 Reviews

Used to be great before the pandemic. Now people from out of state have ruined it by paying New York prices for real estate site unseen. Why would you live in Maine when  More

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Over 4 years ago

I have never lived here but the lack of Jimmy John’s is depressing and makes me wish I was deceased.  More

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Reggie · 
Over 7 years ago

I found out I was allergic to corn on the cob here. I would give Portland twelve thumbs downs if I could. My friend told me there was a subway here and I thought he  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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