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

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Highlights
Are people in Colton older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Colton is 2.9 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Colton or Santa Cruz?
- Colton housing costs are 64.4% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Colton or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Colton is 3.2 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 Colton?
Colton, California is a hidden gem located just east of Los Angeles. With a population of around 53,000, Colton has all the charm of a small town with the perks of larger cities nearby. Residents enjoy many benefits such as affordable housing and convenience to major cities including Los Angeles and San Diego. The town also offers plenty to do such as golfing, camping, fishing and other outdoor activities. In addition, there are numerous attractions in the area including an Amtrak station, art galleries and museums. Altogether Colton is an ideal destination for those looking for a laid-back lifestyle close to major cities in Southern California.

 Santa Cruz, CAColton, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock53,894329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.4%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 Colton    2 Reviews

Over 18 years ago

My husband and I moved from Baltimore/D.C. a year and a half ago. Even with owning a home back east sticker shock set in here. We bought a home in Colton verses what  More

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My husband and I moved to California 18 months ago from the east coast. Intially we weren't considering Colton to buy our second home but after months of looking in  More

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