2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs El Cajon, CA

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Highlights
Are people in El Cajon older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in El Cajon is 5.8 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in El Cajon or Santa Cruz?
- El Cajon housing costs are 42.8% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, El Cajon or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of El Cajon is 3.3 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 El Cajon?
El Cajon, California is a vibrant city located in San Diego County. From its breathtaking views to its many cultural attractions, El Cajon has something for everyone! Outdoor activities like the Los Coches Creek Park and Boomers El Cajon will keep visitors entertained all day long. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like the East County Performing Arts Center or the Ronald Hammond Interpretive Center. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Haru Ramen Bar or Bottles & Barrels. With so much to offer, El Cajon is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

 Santa Cruz, CAEl Cajon, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock106,043329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.6%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

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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 El Cajon    10 Reviews

Stay out of East El Cajon. The people that live there don't like  More

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Housing less expensive then San Diego, wages the same. A total package of people from different backgrounds (ethnic) which is  More

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El Cajon and La Mesa are about a dozen miles east of the Pacific Ocean. Fletcher Hills, in particular, is a community within El Cajon on the boarder of La Mesa/Mt.  More

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