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

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Highlights
Are people in Montecito older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Montecito is 20.2 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Montecito or Santa Cruz?
- Montecito housing costs are 220.7% more expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Montecito or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Montecito is 4.4 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 Montecito?
Living in Montecito, CA is a true treat. The quaint, small-town atmosphere surrounded by the beauty of nature makes it an ideal place to call home. The Mediterranean climate and stunning landscape offer up plenty of opportunities to explore and relax. The downtown area is filled with unique shops, delicious restaurants, and picturesque architecture. You can also take advantage of the local beaches to soak up some sun or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. With its quiet charm and idyllic scenery, Montecito provides an unforgettable living experience that is hard to find anywhere else!

 Santa Cruz, CAMontecito, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock8,494329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock49.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.6%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 Montecito    1 Reviews

I lived in Montecito for 7 years up-to 2020. Everything is sooo over priced, Contractors rip you off, one contractor tried to charge me $800 just to clean the Windows  More

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