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

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Highlights
Are people in Albany older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Albany is 6.9 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Albany or Santa Cruz?
- Albany housing costs are 69.1% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Albany or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Albany is 2.8 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Santa Cruz.

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.

Things to do in Albany?
Albany, OR is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley. Situated along the mighty Willamette River, Albany offers pristine natural beauty, a thriving cultural scene, award-winning restaurants and breweries, and much more! It is home to historic sites like The Monteith House Museum and Thomas Kay Woolen Mill, as well as modern attractions such as the Linn County Expo Center and Discovery Garden. With something for everyone from outdoors lovers to art enthusiasts, Albany has something for everyone!

 Santa Cruz, CAAlbany, ORUnited States
 Population  Unlock55,776329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.45  Unlock26.38
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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Reviews for Albany    25 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

I only lived in Albany 1 year. But I found the weather to be quite Mild. The Housing more affordable than Corvallis. I was shocked to find that nearby Corvallis gets  More

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I've been living in Albany about 4.5 years. Moved up from Southern California to escape high home prices and the cost of living and clogged freeways. Now it's not sunny  More

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Over 4 years ago

Ten months and ongoing in Albany, from the SF Bay Area. Much less crime here, much quieter here, more courteous and sane drivers here by far. We have been able to  More

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