2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Ludington, MI

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Ludington older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Ludington is 14.6 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ludington or Santa Cruz?
- Ludington housing costs are 83.0% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ludington or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Ludington is 12.2 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 Ludington?
Ludington, MI is a small city located along Lake Michigan. Despite its small size, it offers big city amenities with an active downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Residents of Ludington enjoy the lakefront parks and beaches that offer recreational activities like fishing, swimming, and boating. With the beautiful shoreline of Lake Michigan as a backdrop, residents also take advantage of the hiking and biking trails throughout town. The downtown area has lots of festivals and events to get involved in throughout the year for those looking for something fun to do. With its close proximity to larger cities like Grand Rapids or Milwaukee, Ludington is an ideal place to call home if you want a quiet town with plenty of activities nearby.

 Santa Cruz, CALudington, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock7,728329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock43.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.9%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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Cruz

Reviews for Ludington    3 Reviews

Over 17 years ago

Is awesome. I love salmon fishing there. During the summer months there will be thousands of people from Ludington all the way to Frankfort and everyone usually leaves  More

   |    Reply

The beach is the place to be!!!! It is one of the absolute most beautiful beaches in Michigan! The sand dunes on the way to the state park are fabulous and  More

   |    Reply

If you like mild summers and snowy winters this is the place to be!!! From Memorial Day to Labor Day, almost like a switch, the weather is beautiful!! You have your  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ludington


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.