2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Escondido, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Escondido older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Escondido is 6.7 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Escondido or Santa Cruz?
- Escondido housing costs are 43.0% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Escondido or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Escondido is 4.4 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 Escondido?
Escondido, California is a vibrant city located in the heart of San Diego County. Home to many outdoor attractions such as Lake Wohlford and Daley Ranch, visitors can explore nature at its finest when visiting Escondido. There are also plenty of cultural attractions including museums, galleries, and performance venues. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Escondido has something for everyone!

 Santa Cruz, CAEscondido, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock151,443329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.0%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 Escondido    16 Reviews

Escondido wins because of the weather, but has a lot of drawbacks. The schools are HORRIBLE. Like really bad. I've moved around a lot and the schools are the worst  More

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Weather is perfect year round. There are tons of things to do with the lakes, parks, the world famous San Diego Zoo's Safari Park, performing arts center, numerous  More

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Over 9 years ago

Good cost of  More

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