2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Las Cruces, NM

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Highlights
Are people in Las Cruces older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Las Cruces is 3.7 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Las Cruces or Santa Cruz?
- Las Cruces housing costs are 78.8% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Las Cruces or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Las Cruces is 5.3 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 Las Cruces?
Las Cruces, New Mexico is a vibrant city located in Dona Ana County. From its breathtaking views to its many cultural attractions, Las Cruces has something for everyone! Outdoor activities like the Dripping Springs Natural Area and the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument will keep visitors entertained all day long. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like the Museum of Art or the Double Eagle ll Historic Site. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Jazzy Bar & Grille or La Posta de Mesilla. With so much to offer, Las Cruces is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

 Santa Cruz, CALas Cruces, NMUnited States
 Population  Unlock109,934329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.1%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 Las Cruces    50 Reviews

I've lived in Las Cruces for six months now. Before moving here I was in Albuquerque (3 hrs north) for four years and before that I lived in Northern Utah most of my  More

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Over 2 years ago

Las Cruces is a hidden gem! Homes are still affordable, you're not far from bigger city entertainment/transportation, and the scenery in beautiful. It's not all dry  More

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Over 4 years ago

It depends on what you are looking for; for me Las Cruces is and ideal place. I am retired and the kind of places I seek to live in have changed over the years. I have  More

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