2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs La Mesa, CA

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Highlights
Are people in La Mesa older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in La Mesa is 7.0 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in La Mesa or Santa Cruz?
- La Mesa housing costs are 42.0% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, La Mesa or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of La Mesa is 0.9 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 La Mesa?
La Mesa, California is a sunny city located in San Diego County. This vibrant community has plenty to offer anyone looking for an exciting place to live or visit. La Mesa has some of the best dining and shopping opportunities in the area, as well as access to several outdoor activities. Families will love the family-friendly attractions available throughout the area, such as roaming train rides and zoos. There are also great educational institutions nearby, making it a great place for students of all ages. With its beautiful weather year-round, La Mesa is an excellent destination to call home!

 Santa Cruz, CALa Mesa, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock61,040329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%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 La Mesa    9 Reviews

The same San Diego prices and high taxes, but not the nice weather. 15 degrees hotter than the coast. Save the money and move to AZ if you like the climate in La Mesa.  More

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I now live in Wyoming but I was a third generation San Diegan, my maternal grandmother having been born on Coronado Island in 1894. If you are a new arrival to the  More

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I Need Correct Information I lived there Over 20 Years  More

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