2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Salem, OR vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 6.7 years younger than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Salem?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 218.5% more expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 1.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Salem.

Things to do in Salem?
Salem, Oregon is a vibrant city located in the Willamette Valley. With its close proximity to both the ocean and the mountains, Salem offers something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy sailing, kayaking, fishing and hiking in nearby parks and forests. The city is also home to a variety of museums and historical sites from the state's rich past, as well as an array of shopping centers, entertainment venues and nightlife hotspots. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or relocating for the long term, Salem 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.

 Salem, ORSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$62,185  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$399,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.62  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Salem    37 Reviews

After reading the reviews here, I had to come write my own. The problem I had with most of the reviews is that most were very opinion-based and seemed to assume everyone  More

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Moved here approx. 4 years ago from SW Michigan, but I've lived in 9 other cities & 5 other states. Salem is a very manageable sized city, with tons of parks, diverse  More

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Over 5 years ago

I'm a native 5th generation Oregonian, so bear in mind that I was born with webs between my toes! Anyway, I used to think it rained too much when I was young. Then I  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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