2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Charlottesville, VA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Charlottesville older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Charlottesville is 3.5 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Charlottesville or Santa Cruz?
- Charlottesville housing costs are 66.2% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Charlottesville or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Charlottesville is 5.7 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 Charlottesville?
Charlottesville, Virginia lies between Richmond & Washington D.C., making it an ideal spot for those who want access to urban life without actually living in a big city environment. Home to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate, Charlottesville boasts gorgeous architecture plus numerous wineries & eateries where you can sample some amazing local cuisine. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound here too: take your pick from hikes through beautiful mountain trails or canoeing down Big Run Creek - both will leave you with lasting memories!

 Santa Cruz, CACharlottesville, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock46,597329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.7%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 Charlottesville    44 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

I have lived in Charlottesville, Albemarle County for 25 years. It USED to be a decent place but in the past 10 years has gone downhill. Rent is TOO high, landlords are  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

Loved here for 7 years, lots of parks and close proximity to Shenandoah, but that’s where the positives end. High cost of living with extreme income inequality,  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

Charlottesville resident for 7 years. Plenty of parks, the Rivanna River and trail, and a short drive to Shenandoah National Park means plenty of opportunities for  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Charlottesville


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.