2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Prescott Valley, AZ

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Highlights
Are people in Prescott Valley older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Prescott Valley is 18.1 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Prescott Valley or Santa Cruz?
- Prescott Valley housing costs are 64.8% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Prescott Valley or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Prescott Valley is 2.8 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 Prescott Valley?
Prescott Valley, Arizona is a truly unique destination due to its proximity to Prescott National Forest and the Bradshaw Mountains providing opportunities for outdoor activities like camping at Watson Lake or fishing along Willow Creek.

 Santa Cruz, CAPrescott Valley, AZUnited States
 Population  Unlock46,014329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock47.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.3%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 Prescott Valley    34 Reviews

My neighbor set his home on fire. No insurance. The city did nothing. Its been 15 months,. The wrecked house is a eyesore. Dont get into a HOA. They are  More

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We moved here about 3 1/2 years ago. Prescott Valley is growing out of control, the town rubber stamps anything a builder wants. Traffic is getting worse, new residents  More

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Over 5 years ago

Before moving to Prescott Valley I lived in Phoenix 30 years and watched Prescott Valley go from basically a few little mom and pop stores on the main road to Prescott  More

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