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

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Highlights
Are people in Oceanside older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Oceanside is 8.1 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Oceanside or Santa Cruz?
- Oceanside housing costs are 38.1% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Oceanside or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Oceanside is 4.8 minutes longer 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 Oceanside?
Oceanside, California is a beachfront city located in San Diego County. With miles of white sand and crystal blue waters, it is an excellent destination for those looking to relax and soak up some sun. The area also has numerous attractions such as the Oceanside Pier and Harbor Beach, as well as popular restaurants that offer fresh seafood. History buffs can explore the historical sites like the Mission San Luis Rey de Francia or visit the California Surf Museum to learn more about local surf culture. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of various activities such as surfing, kayaking and even whale watching! With so much to offer, Oceanside provides a perfect getaway for any season!

 Santa Cruz, CAOceanside, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock174,461329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.4%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 Oceanside    20 Reviews

Over 6 years ago

I've lived in here since 1988, left in 1995 and came back in 2005. I will always love Oceanside. You have to come check it out. It has changed so drastically and there  More

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Over 7 years ago

from oceanside ca love the city always love the beach life u can't get anywhere else yes... it has been cleaned up and welcomes people from all over . I miss my  More

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Moved to O'Side Nov 1988 (Lived there from 78 thru 79 prior to moving back in 88). 78-1979 was a Fun, Good, Relaxing Time to Live in O'Side- Low Crime Rate, Low  More

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