2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Fair Oaks, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Fair Oaks older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Fair Oaks is 17.2 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fair Oaks or Santa Cruz?
- Fair Oaks housing costs are 54.7% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fair Oaks or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Fair Oaks is 4.0 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 Fair Oaks?
Fair Oaks, CA boasts a small-town charm built on its agricultural roots but still keeping up with modern times offering many amenities such as fantastic shopping spots at Fair Oaks Village Mall where people can be seen partaking in its weekly farmers market too!

 Santa Cruz, CAFair Oaks, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock31,750329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock46.238.4
 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

   |    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 Fair Oaks    7 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

I grew up in the little section nestled near the hospital, It's more citrus heights than it is fair oaks but i get in on a technicality. I loved growing up here, hella  More

   |    Reply

Moved here in June and am leaving in September. Not an ideal place. Sacramento county is one of the worst. Move to Placer county, much better amenities. There are NO  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

I've lived in Orangevale, CA for about 10 years. Fair Oaks is right next door and ever since I've lived in the area I have LOVED Fair Oaks. The homes off of Winding Way  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Fair Oaks


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.