2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Chapel Hill, NC

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Chapel Hill older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Chapel Hill is 4.0 years younger than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Chapel Hill or Santa Cruz?
- Chapel Hill housing costs are 56.7% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Chapel Hill or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Chapel Hill is 3.8 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 Chapel Hill?
Chapel Hill, North Carolina is an energetic city located in Orange County. This bustling community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available in Coker Arboretum and Battle Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Chapel Hill their home.

 Santa Cruz, CAChapel Hill, NCUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,920329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.2%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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Cruz

Reviews for Chapel Hill    16 Reviews

Between my wife and I, we've lived in Raleigh, Cary, Durham, and Chapel Hill, and it's Chapel Hill we prefer. Franklin Street is always lively with an eclectic mix of  More

   |    Reply

I am not sure if Bert has actually been to the Triangle, but for starters, Durham, as Chapel Hill residents know and envy, is and has been for 5 yrs now a vibrant  More

   |    Reply

someone told me they live in the hills/mountains right near chapel hill, and the summers are much cooler there, while the town itself is easily accessible. is this  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Chapel Hill


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.