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

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Highlights
Are people in Fairfield older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Fairfield is 6.2 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fairfield or Santa Cruz?
- Fairfield housing costs are 52.1% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fairfield or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Fairfield is 7.4 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 Fairfield?
Fairfield, California is a beautiful city situated in the heart of the Bay Area. With its mild climate year-round, it's the perfect destination to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can explore nearby wine country, take advantage of the area’s cultural attractions such as art galleries and museums, or simply marvel at the stunning views of rolling hills and vineyards. With its convenient location close to both San Francisco and Sacramento, Fairfield offers something for everyone!

 Santa Cruz, CAFairfield, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock118,932329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.238.4
 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

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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 Fairfield    10 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

I've lived here for 4 years. On the up side, housing is affordable. The downside, there is nothing to do here. The city lacks community events and an a nice downtown. We  More

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Over 10 years ago

I am finding out the cost of living here in Fairfield is way too high for my retirement. I am looking for a place where the cost of living is in line with my retirement  More

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Over 14 years ago

good  More

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