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

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Scottsdale?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 18.9 years younger than in Scottsdale.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Scottsdale?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 76.2% more expensive than Scottsdale housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Scottsdale?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 1.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Scottsdale.

Things to do in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale, Arizona is a picturesque city located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. Home to numerous upscale resorts and boutiques, it's an ideal spot for luxury travelers to visit. Enjoy a round of golf at one of the world-class courses or explore the desert on foot with a hike through the McDowell Mountains. Savor unique culinary creations from award-winning restaurants or take in a show at one of the many performing arts venues. With its breathtaking views and endless activities, Scottsdale is perfect for any visitor!

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.

 Scottsdale, AZSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$97,409  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$721,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.11  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Scottsdale    84 Reviews

It's been a long time since I visited Scottsdale after visiting a few times a decade ago. It used to be more of an area that deserved it's punchlines for being stuck up  More

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Over 1 years ago

My son went to ASU in '99 which is how we ended up here from Northern Illinois. Over the years we came out for vacations and bought a second home until we finally made  More

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I lived in San Jose for 30 years...in the late '50s. I walked thru cherry orchards to school. After college classes, I drove 20 minutes to the beach. San Francisco was  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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