2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs San Carlos, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in San Carlos older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in San Carlos is 12.0 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in San Carlos or Santa Cruz?
- San Carlos housing costs are 65.5% more expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, San Carlos or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of San Carlos is 5.3 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 San Carlos?
San Carlos, CA is located in San Mateo County and is known for its quiet residential streets enhanced by vibrant downtown business district. Residents can enjoy many outdoor activities such as sailing or golfing nearby.

 Santa Cruz, CASan Carlos, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock30,754329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock4138.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.2%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 San Carlos    1 Reviews

Over 18 years ago

I have lived in San Carlos for over 15 years and absolutely love it! There is a great mix of age groups and it is becoming more ethnically diverse. Kids play on my  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of San Carlos


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.