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

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Clarita older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Santa Clarita is 8.0 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Clarita or Santa Cruz?
- Santa Clarita housing costs are 40.1% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Clarita or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Clarita is 11.4 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 Clarita?
Santa Clarita, California is an exciting city with plenty of attractions for everyone. Nature lovers can explore the many scenic trails and parks, while art fans can admire pieces from the Art Depot Gallery and other local galleries. History buffs will appreciate learning about the area's past at the William S. Hart Museum, while sports fans can cheer on their team at Valencia Industrial Center Stadium. Foodies will love sampling all the delicious eats in town, and shoppers should take advantage of good deals at Westfield Valencia Town Center Mall. With its unique culture, exciting attractions, and fun activities, Santa Clarita is a great destination to visit!

 Santa Cruz, CASanta Clarita, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock227,182329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3738.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.6%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

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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 Clarita    56 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

It’s called awesome Town for a reason! Great schools, great People and climate! It’s a treasure!   More

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Wonderful community! Beautiful paseo paths throughout great for bike riding, roller skating, scooters, walks and jogs. Great weather, 30 minutes from the beach, lots  More

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My husband and I moved into our first home in 1989 - just as the Valencia Mall broke ground. I still miss the Bob's Big Boy at the corner of Valencia Blvd. and Magic  More

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