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

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Highlights
Are people in Orange older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Orange is 7.0 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Orange or Santa Cruz?
- Orange housing costs are 25.8% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Orange or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Orange is 2.2 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 Orange?
Orange, California is a vibrant city located in southern California. Here visitors and residents can find plenty to do from exploring the historic Old Towne Plaza or taking part in one of many popular festivals. With its excellent school system, thriving businesses, and plenty of recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Orange their home. There are also numerous dining options, shopping centers and entertainment venues available for those looking for more fun!

 Santa Cruz, CAOrange, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock139,195329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.0%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 Orange    13 Reviews

Southern California is a wonderful place to live (if you can afford it). Currently, we are a family of 3- myself, my husband and our son. We are FINALLY thinking it may  More

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Over 15 years ago

Numerous highly rated hospitals are located within a 20 mile radius. Variety of hospitals include specialty, such as Childrens Hospital of Orange County; private;  More

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Over 15 years ago

The Weather is great. However, the housing, jobs, schools and the State Government is  More

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