2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Anchorage, AK

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Highlights
Are people in Anchorage older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Anchorage is 5.3 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Anchorage or Santa Cruz?
- Anchorage housing costs are 72.9% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Anchorage or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Anchorage is 4.6 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 Anchorage?
Anchorage, Alaska is an exciting destination for nature lovers, outdoor adventurers and city dwellers alike. Explore the lush Chugach State Park and take in stunning views of mountains, glaciers, rivers and lakes. On a cold day, head indoors to the Alaska Native Heritage Center or Anchorage Museum to learn about the history and culture of the state's native people. Visit downtown Anchorage for great shopping and dining options, or take time to relax at some of the many parks throughout the area. The vibrant city of Anchorage offers something for everyone!

 Santa Cruz, CAAnchorage, AKUnited States
 Population  Unlock292,545329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.6%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 Anchorage    83 Reviews

Over 1 years ago

Anchorage had potential but with the massive amount of homeless the petty crime is on the rise. I chose to live in a town outside of Anchorage rather than the city for  More

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I lived in Anchorage for the better part of the 2010's. Pros: o Beautiful, mountain and ocean views; close to many hiking trails, campsites, fishing grounds,  More

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it's nice, i liked it when i grew up there. kinda wish i could move back, but i didn't really like being isolated from all the things like nordstrom, trader joe's,  More

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