2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Independence, MO

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

Are housing costs cheaper in Independence or Santa Cruz?
- Independence housing costs are 85.9% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Independence or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Independence is 1.4 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 Independence?
Independence, Missouri is a historic city with a rich heritage and plenty to offer visitors. From its many museums and monuments to its diverse shopping districts and restaurants, visitors can experience all that this city has to offer. With its abundance of parks, trails, and outdoor activities, you can take in the beauty of this area while enjoying some fresh air. Adding to the atmosphere is the range of cultural attractions including art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Whether it's a leisurely stroll around town or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Independence offers something for everyone!

 Santa Cruz, CAIndependence, MOUnited States
 Population  Unlock122,230329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.7%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 Independence    10 Reviews

The ice age sent glaciers sweeping south, ending at what is the edge of the Missouri River. Independence, Missouri, has artesian water straight from this glacial melt  More

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Over 11 years ago

I've lived here pretty much all my life, and I have to say, I'm ready to get out. I'm not sure if the crime here has just skyrocketed over recent years, or if I was just  More

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Over 12 years ago

Independence, Missouri is just like any other fairly large, fairly old town. A city approaching 200 years old and having nearly 120,000 residents is going to have both  More

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