2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Lake Havasu City, AZ

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Highlights
Are people in Lake Havasu City older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Lake Havasu City is 25.8 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Lake Havasu City or Santa Cruz?
- Lake Havasu City housing costs are 65.7% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Lake Havasu City or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Lake Havasu City is 2.7 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 Lake Havasu City?
Lake Havasu City, Arizona is a scenic lakeside destination nestled in the foothills of the lower Colorado River. It offers residents and visitors an array of outdoor activities, attractions and amenities. With 300 days of sunshine per year and close proximity to Lake Havasu State Park, it’s easy to explore the area’s natural beauty. In addition to boating, fishing, swimming and hiking, there are multiple golf courses, zip lines, ATV trails and water sports available for recreation. Meanwhile, culture enthusiasts can enjoy art galleries, museums and theaters as well as a vibrant nightlife scene. With so much to do and see in Lake Havasu City, it's no wonder why this destination continues to draw people from all over the world!

 Santa Cruz, CALake Havasu City, AZUnited States
 Population  Unlock56,510329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock54.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.2%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 Lake Havasu City    21 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

First I want to begin this review by saying I am a young black woman who stopped here for 1 day on her way to California with my husband, who is white. Every  More

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Over 4 years ago

Unfortunately, many on the far-right like to “claim” Lake Havasu City, but that’s going to change very soon as more Dems move in and help to build the economy and add  More

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My wife and I purchased last year for a few reasons: we got tired of the people in California; city living and crime. Not trying to insult anyone just true. As we  More

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