2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Cottonwood, AZ

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Cottonwood older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Cottonwood is 24.3 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Cottonwood or Santa Cruz?
- Cottonwood housing costs are 71.0% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Cottonwood or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Cottonwood is 0.3 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 Cottonwood?
Cottonwood, Arizona is a beautiful small town located in the Verde Valley region of Yavapai County. It is surrounded by gorgeous red rock formations and offers plenty of outdoor activities for its visitors and residents alike. There are many historical points of interest to explore, such as Montezuma Castle National Monument, Tuzigoot National Monument, and Fort Verde State Historic Park. Nature lovers can take advantage of the nearby Coconino National Forest or Prescott National Forest while those looking for a bit more adventure can check out Dead Horse Ranch State Park or Jerome State Historic Park. With its picturesque beauty and wide array of activities, Cottonwood makes an ideal spot to visit or settle down.

 Santa Cruz, CACottonwood, AZUnited States
 Population  Unlock12,073329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock53.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.6%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 Cottonwood    10 Reviews

As a 6th generation AZ Native, someone who had the misfortune of growing up in Phoenix, and who has lived all over the VV and Flagstaff, I think Cottonwood is great  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

I have lived in Cottonwood since 2002. When I first moved here, this place was wonderful. Quiet, friendly and affordable. The weather was good with plenty of sunshine  More

   |    Reply

Actually Cottonwood is a great place because of the great LGBTQ community. Without this aspect Cottonwood wouldn't be anything really, except a Wal-mart. The LGBTQ  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Cottonwood


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.