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

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Highlights
Are people in Goleta older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Goleta is 6.0 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Goleta or Santa Cruz?
- Goleta housing costs are 7.3% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Goleta or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Goleta is 7.2 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 Goleta?
Goleta CA can be found north Santa Barbara full of scenic routes perfect for bike rides such as Camino Cielo Loop showcasing some breathtaking views alongside private gardens, art galleries & wineries giving vacationers a chance to explore area's culture.

 Santa Cruz, CAGoleta, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock32,677329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.9%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 Goleta    2 Reviews

Lived in this area 2014-now (2022), Goleta for 4 years of that. Pros: *The climate is unbeatable, unless you enjoy being overly hot or cold, or snow sports which  More

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I live in Goleta and work part-time in Santa Barbara. I am semi-retired and have a decent income. Making wise choices of where to spend my income has always been  More

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