2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Scotts Valley, CA vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Scotts Valley?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 17.3 years younger than in Scotts Valley.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Scotts Valley?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 12.2% more expensive than Scotts Valley housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Scotts Valley?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 4.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Scotts Valley.

Things to do in Scotts Valley?
Scotts Valley, California is a beautiful small town located in Santa Cruz County. Nestled between rolling hills and the Pacific Coast, Scotts Valley offers breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also many local businesses and attractions, making it a great spot for visitors and residents alike. With its mild climate and friendly atmosphere, Scotts Valley is the perfect place to live or visit.

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.

 Scotts Valley, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$114,504  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,132,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time27.77  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Scotts Valley    4 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

We lived and worked in Scotts Valley for a number of years. It's a nice enough city, safe and clean unlike some areas of Santa Cruz. It's well managed and the schools  More

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Over 7 years ago

Great weather and small town feel but it is changing rapidly  More

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Over 11 years ago

Scotts Valley is an ideal, small town with many wonderful features. It's just 10 minutes from the beaches in nearby Santa Cruz yet doesn't get the wet fog because it's  More

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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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