2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Dana Point, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Dana Point older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Dana Point is 19.5 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Dana Point or Santa Cruz?
- Dana Point housing costs are 7.0% more expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Dana Point or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Dana Point is 5.6 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 Dana Point?
Dana Point CA is situated on Orange County’s beautiful coastline with miles of picturesque beaches perfect for scuba diving, surfing and other water sports.

 Santa Cruz, CADana Point, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock33,327329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock48.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.4%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

   |    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 Dana Point    8 Reviews

Over 11 years ago

Climate is one of the world's  More

   |    Reply

Nice place to live. Mediterranean climate. Too many people, high cost of living, California taxes high. Ocean is  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

We are in the California Riviera...but there's a price! This is a great place to  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Dana Point


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.