2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Charlotte, NC

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Highlights
Are people in Charlotte older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Charlotte is 5.5 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Charlotte or Santa Cruz?
- Charlotte housing costs are 70.0% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Charlotte or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Charlotte is 1.9 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 Charlotte?
Charlotte, North Carolina is a wonderful destination for visitors to explore. From its bustling downtown area to the rolling hills and lush forests of nearby parks like Freedom Park, this vibrant city offers something for everyone. Indulge in local cuisine at one of Charlotte's many restaurants or take a stroll through some of its unique boutiques and shops. Be sure to visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame for an inside peek into racing history or head over to Discovery Place Science Museum for a day full of educational fun. Whether you're looking for entertainment, culture or adventure, Charlotte truly has it all!

 Santa Cruz, CACharlotte, NCUnited States
 Population  Unlock864,871329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.9%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 Charlotte    305 Reviews

My favorite city to live year round with 4 seasons. We love Charlotte  More

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Over 3 years ago

This city has a lot of potential, but it could use some work. For example, it seems to lack things that other cities have. And there is a lack of atmosphere and charm.  More

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Over 4 years ago

Very new transplant (~6 weeks) so first impressions and reasons why I moved here: -great year-round weather, if you don't mind humidity-- less hot in summer than TX/AZ  More

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