2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Del Mar, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Del Mar older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Del Mar is 21.5 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Del Mar or Santa Cruz?
- Del Mar housing costs are 168.5% more expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Del Mar or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Del Mar is 2.3 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 Del Mar?
Living in Del Mar, CA is truly a dream come true for many. With its stunning beaches, picturesque views, and clean air, it's no wonder why so many people flock to this charming coastal town. The area offers endless outdoor activities such as surfing, paddle-boarding, and hiking that let you take full advantage of the natural beauty that surrounds the city. Additionally, there’s plenty of shopping and dining options along 15th Street where you can find exceptional seafood restaurants and enjoy some of the best sunset views imaginable. All in all, living in Del Mar is an experience like no other.

 Santa Cruz, CADel Mar, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock4,008329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock50.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.9%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 Del Mar    2 Reviews

I'm born, and raised in the Chicago area, and had most of my career while living in the Washington, DC area. San Diego does take some getting used to. Where you live  More

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Over 15 years ago

Greatest weather in the  More

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