2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Aptos, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Aptos older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Aptos is 24.5 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Aptos or Santa Cruz?
- Aptos housing costs are 1.1% more expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Aptos or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Aptos is 7.8 minutes longer 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 Aptos?
Aptos, CA is an idyllic coastal town located in Santa Cruz County. Featuring stunning views of the Monterey Bay and a laid-back lifestyle, Aptos offers its residents a unique and enjoyable experience. The city boasts white sand beaches, rolling hills, and redwood forests – all just minutes away from downtown. Residents of this charming community are also privy to a wide variety of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues throughout the area. With its mild climate and access to nearby cities like Santa Cruz and Watsonville, Aptos is a great place to call home for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities or simply relaxing with friends, Aptos has something for everyone.

 Santa Cruz, CAAptos, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock6,372329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock53.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.1%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 Aptos    4 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

I have owned a home in Aptos for 10 years and cannot thing of anywhere else I would rather live. I have lived in San Diego, Orange County, Half Moon Bay, and other  More

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Over 10 years ago

Well, Aptos is in Santa Cruz County, California. I love the entire county of Santa Cruz. The weather is fantastic. We have both the beautiful Monterey Bay with lots  More

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Over 14 years ago

We've lived in Aptos/Rio Del Mar for many years and it's a very lovely, peaceful village far from the rat race . The views of the ocean are stunning and the shopping in  More

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