2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Rochester, NY vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Rochester?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 3.9 years younger than in Rochester.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Rochester?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 870.8% more expensive than Rochester housing costs.

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

Things to do in Rochester?
Rochester, New York is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for everyone. Nature lovers can explore the scenic Genesee River or take a hike at Durand Eastman Park. History buffs should check out sites like the George Eastman Museum to learn more about the area's past. Sports fans can catch a game at Frontier Field, while foodies can sample all kinds of delicious eats throughout town. Shopping lovers should visit The Marketplace at Oxbridge or Pittsford Plaza for good deals on all kinds of items. With its rich culture and exciting activities, Rochester is an incredible place to visit!

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.

 Rochester, NYSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$40,083  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$130,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.06  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Rochester    79 Reviews

Stay out of the rougher patches, and you'll find a pretty solid city. I live within close proximity to it, and the crime from it DOES rub off on us (auto theft), but  More

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Rochester isn't perfect (I'll detail pros and cons), but it's certainly perfect for me and my husband. We've lived here for 4 years and are getting ready to purchase our  More

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Rochester is a scenic city with so much to offer in terms of things to do and having 4 seasons, except the summer is more like a long spring!! It's a relatively unknown  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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