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

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Highlights
Are people in Watsonville older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in Watsonville is 2.1 years older than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in Watsonville or Santa Cruz?
- Watsonville housing costs are 36.8% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Watsonville or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of Watsonville is 0.4 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 Watsonville?
Watsonville, California is a vibrant city located on the central coast of California. Nestled between Monterey Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains, Watsonville offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. From its wide variety of parks, trails and lakes to historic buildings and colorful murals, Watsonville has something for everyone. Visitors can explore its thriving farmers markets, galleries and restaurants or take in the spectacular views from cliffside beaches. With its friendly people and vibrant culture, Watsonville is a great place to call home or visit for an unforgettable experience.

 Santa Cruz, CAWatsonville, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock52,966329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock19.0%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 Watsonville    3 Reviews

We live in a nice area and love the climate but cost of living have gotten way out of hand. Vandals walk around smashing windows over and over without getting  More

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the cost of housing is slightly more affordable (just slightly). Close to the beach and near perfect weather. Especially during summer when it was 107 in San Jose' it  More

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Over 19 years ago

Nice neighborhood, but since moving here we have not felt a sense of  More

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