2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs San Marcos, TX

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Highlights
Are people in San Marcos older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in San Marcos is 4.1 years younger than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in San Marcos or Santa Cruz?
- San Marcos housing costs are 73.6% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, San Marcos or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of San Marcos is 1.4 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 San Marcos?
San Marcos, Texas is a vibrant city located in the heart of Hays County. This welcoming community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the Wonder World Cave or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Rio Vista Park, Aquarena Springs and Purgatory Creek Natural Area. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make San Marcos their home.

 Santa Cruz, CASan Marcos, TXUnited States
 Population  Unlock64,812329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock24.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%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 San Marcos    6 Reviews

An area with so much potential and existing natural beauty.Sadly bad urban planning is clearly obvious.Looks like fun for tens of thousands of students.However for the  More

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Over 16 years ago

San Marcos has the most beautiful people and places that I have ever seen throughout my travels. I love this city so much that I decided to settle down here and start a  More

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Over 17 years ago

I spent several summers and a couple winters in San Marcos during my formidable years and really have to tell those interested about what a nice town it is. The best  More

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