2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Port Townsend, WA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Port Townsend older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Port Townsend is 28.1 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Port Townsend or Santa Cruz?
- Port Townsend housing costs are 54.4% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Port Townsend or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Port Townsend is 0.1 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 Port Townsend?
Port Townsend is an incorporated city situated within Jefferson County, Washington boasting plenty of attractions such as exploring its multiple parks perfect for enjoying a picnic or taking part in various sports activities plus nearby Fort Worden offers stunning views great for outdoor activities. Additionally there are numerous shopping outlets and eateries providing unique itemsor delicious cuisine ideal for any budget during their stay here!

 Santa Cruz, CAPort Townsend, WAUnited States
 Population  Unlock10,002329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock57.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.6%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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Cruz

Reviews for Port Townsend    8 Reviews

We live a little over an hour away and absolutely love Port Townsend and the surrounding areas. There are a lot of surprises. There are great places to eat, live music,  More

   |    Reply

I loved living in Port Townsend for about 20 years. It’s a quiet and safe town with several festivals, art, music, and more. The main economy is centered around tourism  More

   |    Reply

Transplant Californians are selling their shacks for a million, and purchasing homes here for twice what they should cost due to supply and demand. Port Townsend is a  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Port Townsend


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.