2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Springfield, IL vs Santa Cruz, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Springfield?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 10.7 years younger than in Springfield.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Springfield?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 853.3% more expensive than Springfield housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Springfield?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 5.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Springfield.

Things to do in Springfield?
Springfield, Illinois is a vibrant and charming city in the heart of the state. Known for being the home of Abraham Lincoln, this city is steeped in history, offering museums and tours that explore its incredible legacy. However, it's also an incredibly modern city, full of great restaurants, entertainment venues and shopping opportunities. Sports fans can enjoy a range of professional teams while outdoor enthusiasts have access to numerous nearby parks and trails. With a pleasant climate year-round, Springfield is an excellent destination for anyone looking to explore Central Illinois!

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.

 Springfield, ILSanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$57,596  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$133,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.55  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Springfield    25 Reviews

I've lived here for over 40 years. Springfield is a decent place to raise a family. Solid midwestern values, and I've always felt safe. Opportunities exist, but there  More

   |    Reply

I moved (back) to Springfield after living in various cities and towns around the country - as large as Milwaukee, as small as Baker, NV - and can say without  More

   |    Reply

hugh · 
Over 4 years ago

whole town smells like dirty ***** and  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Springfield

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Cruz


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.