2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Marina, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Marina older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Marina is 5.9 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Marina or Santa Cruz?
- Marina housing costs are 37.1% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Marina or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Marina is 0.0 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 Marina?
Marina is a small coastal city located in the San Francisco Bay Area of California. It's just north of Monterey and Carmel, close to where the famous 17 Mile Drive winds its way along the Pacific coast. With a population of almost 20,000 people, Marina has a relaxed vibe and beautiful scenery, making it perfect for eco-tourism. Activities range from kayaking and whale watching to hiking trails and outdoor activities. The Marina State Beach offers great views and elegant picnicking experiences, while nearby military installations such as Fort Ord provide interesting historical tours and educational opportunities. Marina is one of California’s hidden gems – an undiscovered paradise waiting to be explored!

 Santa Cruz, CAMarina, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock22,246329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.9%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

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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 Marina    4 Reviews

I've lived in Marina for the last 15 years. It is a gray place with old dated looking buildings, no real main street, and is the domain of the slum lord, and the mini  More

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Old Fort Ord is the only affordable housing on the Monterey Peninsula. It's frequently colder here than it was in Oregon. There is finally some local public  More

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Over 18 years ago

I find it funny when I lived here from '91-'01 there were hardly any stores new homes being build to justify staying. Then as soon as I move the city finally starts  More

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