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

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Highlights
Are people in Mendocino older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Mendocino is 33.6 years older than in Santa Cruz.

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

Which city has a longer commute, Mendocino or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Mendocino is 3.6 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 Mendocino?
Living in Mendocino, CA is a truly unique experience. With its stunning landscape and small-town charm, it's easy to see why so many people choose to call this place home. From the majestic redwood trees that line the coast to the rolling hills of wine country, the area offers breathtaking views no matter where you look. Residents have access to an array of outdoor activities from hiking on the world-renowned Headlands Trail to kayaking in Big River Estuary. There are also plenty of quaint shops and restaurants for locals to enjoy. In addition, Mendocino is known for its colorful art scene and vibrant live music culture. With all these offerings, there's something for everyone in Mendocino!

 Santa Cruz, CAMendocino, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock715329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock62.638.4
 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 Mendocino    1 Reviews

Over 17 years ago

I love Mendocino, it gets a little foggy here though. There is practically no crime here compared to other  More

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