2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Santa Cruz, CA vs West Lafayette, IN

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Highlights
Are people in West Lafayette older or younger than people in Santa Cruz?
- The Median Age in West Lafayette is 7.5 years younger than in Santa Cruz.

Are housing costs cheaper in West Lafayette or Santa Cruz?
- West Lafayette housing costs are 75.9% less expensive than Santa Cruz housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, West Lafayette or Santa Cruz?
- The average commute for residents of West Lafayette is 7.8 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 West Lafayette?
West Lafayette, IN is a vibrant city located in Tippecanoe County in north-central Indiana. Home to Purdue University, the community of West Lafayette offers its residents access to world-class education facilities and a thriving economy. The area features several parks and recreational areas perfect for outdoor activities such as biking along the Wabash River or playing baseball at Howard Park. Residents also appreciate being surrounded by a variety of restaurants, unique shops, art galleries and other amenities that make living here so enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to explore nature’s beauty or just want to experience a lively college town atmosphere, West Lafayette is sure to please!

 Santa Cruz, CAWest Lafayette, INUnited States
 Population  Unlock44,515329,725,481
 Median Income$96,217  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock21.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,270,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.9%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 West Lafayette    11 Reviews

I am originally from Greencastle, Indiana, a nice friendly rural town and home to DePauw University. Presently, I live in West Lafayette, Indiana, due to my having been  More

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Over 11 years ago

It's a nice small town. It's too bad it's not closer to Indy. I think I would like it here  More

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Over 14 years ago

They have good schools, parks and always have events to  More

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