2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs Tempe, AZ

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Highlights
Are people in Tempe older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Tempe is 0.6 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Tempe or Santa Cruz?
- Tempe housing costs are 66.4% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Tempe or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Tempe is 2.6 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 Tempe?
Tempe, Arizona is a vibrant city located just south of Phoenix. Home to the main campus of Arizona State University, this bustling city offers plenty to explore for locals and visitors alike. From festivals and outdoor activities like golfing, kayaking, and hiking to shopping centers and local eateries, there are plenty of things to do in Tempe. With its friendly atmosphere and welcoming residents, Tempe is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique experience in the Southwest.

 Santa Cruz, CATempe, AZUnited States
 Population  Unlock178,862329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.4%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 Tempe    22 Reviews

Tempe is a very unique case of a College Town that has quickly become a Small College City or a Small City. It used to be where there was small pockets of walkability  More

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Tempe is a small city that definitely has nice areas, nice weather, the people are always good, and it is home of ASU. The Tempe town council has done a good job towards  More

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Over 11 years ago

Lived in Arizona 55 yrs Phoenix /Tempe lost my job and got a offer to keep my job but had to move Fall River MA. I will take the heat over days of cold anytime . January  More

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