2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Charleston, WV

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Highlights
Are people in Charleston older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Charleston is 12.7 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Charleston or Santa Cruz?
- Charleston housing costs are 87.8% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Charleston or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Charleston is 7.3 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 Charleston?
Charleston, West Virginia sits along the Kanawha River in the heart of Appalachia. This vibrant city has wonderful museums highlighting its rich history plus delicious local cuisine that combines Appalachian flavors with modern favorites. Outdoor activities abound with hiking trails in nearby state parks or exploring one of the many lakes for fishing or kayaking. Charleston is also home to lively musical venues showcasing everything from bluegrass music to jazz performers!

 Santa Cruz, CACharleston, WVUnited States
 Population  Unlock49,055329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.2%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

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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 Charleston    12 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

Charleston has a lot going on for being a small city. Capitol Street has great restaurants and Taylor Books, and Capitol Market is one of the best year-round farmers  More

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Over 12 years ago

Charleston has a lot going on for being a small city. Capitol Street has great restaurants and Taylor Books, and Capitol Market is one of the best year-round farmers  More

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Over 12 years ago

Charleston has a lot going on for being a small city. Capitol Street has great restaurants and Taylor Books, and Capitol Market is one of the best year-round farmers  More

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