2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Rapid City, SD vs Santa Cruz, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Rapid City?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 9.1 years younger than in Rapid City.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Rapid City?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 334.5% more expensive than Rapid City housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Rapid City?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 7.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Rapid City.

Things to do in Rapid City?
Rapid City, South Dakota is a vibrant city located in the southwestern corner of the United States. Home to attractions such as Bear Country USA and Reptile Gardens, visitors can explore outdoor activities and historical sites when visiting Rapid City. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as The Journey Museum & Learning Center and Art Alley. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Rapid City has something for everyone!

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.

 Rapid City, SDSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$58,072  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$292,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.68  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Rapid City    31 Reviews

I have lived in this city for the last three and half years and I can't stand it!! Let me spell it out for you, but to be fair, let me give you the Pros first:  More

   |    Reply

Unless you made your pension out of state or already bought a home you can't afford to liver there. Rapid City is gray in winter.  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

I've lived in the city 5 years a loved  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Rapid City

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.