2025 Compare Cities Overview:
San Carlos, CA vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in San Carlos?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 12.0 years younger than in San Carlos.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or San Carlos?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 39.6% less expensive than San Carlos housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or San Carlos?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 5.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of San Carlos.

Things to do in San Carlos?
San Carlos, CA is located in San Mateo County and is known for its quiet residential streets enhanced by vibrant downtown business district. Residents can enjoy many outdoor activities such as sailing or golfing nearby.

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.

 San Carlos, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$204,570  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$2,103,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time28.75  Unlock26.38
Reviews for San Carlos    1 Reviews

Over 18 years ago

I have lived in San Carlos for over 15 years and absolutely love it! There is a great mix of age groups and it is becoming more ethnically diverse. Kids play on my  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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