2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Desert Hot Springs, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Desert Hot Springs older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Desert Hot Springs is 5.9 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Desert Hot Springs or Santa Cruz?
- Desert Hot Springs housing costs are 72.1% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Desert Hot Springs or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Desert Hot Springs is 5.8 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 Desert Hot Springs?
Desert Hot Springs is a small desert town nestled in southern California near Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park. Its hot springs provide warmth throughout the year and are thought to have healing properties. Other attractions include world-class golf courses, hiking trails along with shops and restaurants offering everything from classic American cuisine to Mexican favorites!

 Santa Cruz, CADesert Hot Springs, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock31,988329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.9%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

   |    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 Desert Hot Springs    9 Reviews

lived here 13 years and leaving as soon as possible. crime rate high but getting better. much improved place since 2008. if you buy a house choose the neighborhood and  More

   |    Reply

Over 5 years ago

Love the winters but the summers are too difficult for me. Hot and super windy. However I love the serenity, beautiful mountains, hot springs, and location close to  More

   |    Reply

I am 29 years old and have lived in this city nearly my entire life. When my family moved to this town, there were less than 12,000 people. I've watched it grow a lot.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Desert Hot Springs


Learn More About Desert Hot Springs, California
Overview
Cost of Living
Job Market
Crime
Climate
Economy
Religion
Voting
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.