2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Fort Walton Beach, FL

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Highlights
Are people in Fort Walton Beach older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Fort Walton Beach is 10.5 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fort Walton Beach or Santa Cruz?
- Fort Walton Beach housing costs are 74.6% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fort Walton Beach or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Fort Walton Beach is 4.3 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 Fort Walton Beach?
Fort Walton Beach is a city in Florida that is known for its beautiful beaches and amazing weather. The local attractions include the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, the Indian Temple Mound Museum, and the Air Force Armament Museum. There are also many great restaurants, shops, and activities to enjoy.The area offers wonderful outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, swimming, and beachcombing. Fort Walton Beach boasts a vibrant nightlife with live music, dance clubs, and bars.

 Santa Cruz, CAFort Walton Beach, FLUnited States
 Population  Unlock20,805329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.0%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 Fort Walton Beach    10 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

Ive lived in Fort Walton for atleast 15yrs.Ive seen the good days(early to late 200's)and now the bad.If you move here,youd better make atleast $10,000 a month.These  More

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I would like to know if Fort Walton Beach is a better place to live rather than busy Clearwater FL. We want to re-locate to a quieter city with all the amenities of a  More

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FWB is great for its beautiful beaches and saltwater fishing. It's also easy to move around town except during rush hour (yes, we have a rush hour - but it literally  More

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