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

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Stanford?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 6.9 years older than in Stanford.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Stanford?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 52.4% less expensive than Stanford housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Stanford?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 9.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Stanford.

Things to do in Stanford?
Stanford is a bustling university town located in the heart of Silicon Valley that provides visitors with access to multiple world-class research centers and diverse educational opportunities while boasting various leisure activities such as walking trails situated amongst lush foothills or exploring modern arts districts like Palo Alto's downtown galleries.

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.

 Stanford, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$66,863  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$2,668,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time14.4  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Stanford    0 Reviews

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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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