2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Santa Clara, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Clara older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Santa Clara is 5.0 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Clara or Santa Cruz?
- Santa Clara housing costs are 13.2% more expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Clara or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Clara is 0.2 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 Santa Clara?
Santa Clara, California is an idyllic city located in Santa Clara County. With its stunning parks and trails, great shopping and dining opportunities, and plenty of local attractions, Santa Clara has something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts will be ecstatic when they explore all that the city has to offer while business owners can take advantage of the many resources available. Education is also top-notch in Santa Clara with numerous schools, universities, and medical centers close at hand. Whether you’re looking for a new home or simply wanting to have some fun, Santa Clara is sure to provide the perfect experience!

 Santa Cruz, CASanta Clara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock127,922329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3438.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.4%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 Santa Clara    14 Reviews

Larry · 

Santa Clara, CA and the city government are great. The city has been for the most part very good to me. I grew up in Santa Clara and now that I have been away for two  More

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I have lived in Santa Clara California most of my life so I consider myself to be an expert. The climate is wonderful. The price of housing is way above the national  More

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Over 10 years ago

Good Central Park and activities; City-owned power company provides lower cost power; home to many high-tech companies; city is  More

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