2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Des Moines, WA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 9.6 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Santa Cruz?
- Des Moines housing costs are 55.1% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 7.2 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 Des Moines?
Des Moines WA lies southwest Seattle popular among cyclists thanks to its many scenic trails perfect for mountain biking or controlling road cycling, in addition to several historical sites like West Hylebos Wetlands Park hosting annual events!

 Santa Cruz, CADes Moines, WAUnited States
 Population  Unlock32,631329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.4%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 Des Moines    0 Reviews

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