2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Pontiac, MI

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Highlights
Are people in Pontiac older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Pontiac is 4.2 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Pontiac or Santa Cruz?
- Pontiac housing costs are 91.7% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Pontiac or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Pontiac is 1.7 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 Pontiac?
Pontiac, Michigan is a vibrant and energetic city located in Oakland County. It is home to attractions such as the Cranbrook Institute of Science, the Pontiac Silverdome, and the Zoo at Lakeside Park. The community also features a variety of restaurants, boutiques, movie theaters, and other entertainment venues. Additionally, Pontiac hosts numerous festivals throughout the year celebrating its diverse cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking for exciting nightlife or family-friendly activities, Pontiac has something for everyone!

 Santa Cruz, CAPontiac, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock61,498329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock33.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.3%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 Pontiac    5 Reviews

As soon as they started busing in the early 70’s, this place went to hell in a hand basket! My family moved here in the late 50’s and was once the premiere city in  More

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Like any big city, there are pockets of bad areas in the City. But in general, the Northeast corner is the best with GM powertrain, Piston Palace, Great Lake Crossing,  More

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Lived here from 1979-1998 and the schools are terrible, the future is dim and the crime, poverty and attitude is all so bad that I would not move back here to raise my  More

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