2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Flagstaff, AZ

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Highlights
Are people in Flagstaff older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Flagstaff is 3.2 years younger than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Flagstaff or Santa Cruz?
- Flagstaff housing costs are 55.5% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Flagstaff or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Flagstaff is 7.8 minutes shorter 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 Flagstaff?
Flagstaff, Arizona is a stunning city located in the Southwest region of the United States. Home to attractions such as Walnut Canyon National Monument and Lowell Observatory, visitors can explore outdoor activities and history when visiting Flagstaff. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as the Museum of Northern Arizona and Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra. 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, Flagstaff has something for everyone!

 Santa Cruz, CAFlagstaff, AZUnited States
 Population  Unlock76,228329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock25.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%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

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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 Flagstaff    50 Reviews

Amber · 

Flagstaff is absolutely the perfect place to call home. Especially for families. 4 perfectly balanced seasons. None too extreme and all beautiful. Ridiculously safe!  More

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Leah · 

I've lived here for one year and have to move because the cost to rent here is astronomical. I've been paying $2550/month and now for a comparable home it is $2900 and  More

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Every place depends on what you are looking for. So I will say a bit about me so you can assess where the review is coming from. I am a professional, single, female  More

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