2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Waltham, MA vs Santa Cruz, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Waltham?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 4.8 years younger than in Waltham.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Waltham?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 86.4% more expensive than Waltham housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Waltham?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 1.8 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Waltham.

Things to do in Waltham?
Waltham, Massachusetts is a vibrant city located in Middlesex County. This bustling community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the Lyman Estate Greenhouses or one of many popular restaurants. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Prospect Hill Park, Beaver Brook Reservation and Charles River Reservation. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Waltham their home.

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.

 Waltham, MASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$103,498  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$681,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time25.2  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Waltham    2 Reviews

Over 15 years ago

My husband and I moved from west of Worcester to Waltham a few months ago and are really enjoying life here. We're situated in an apartment close to Moody Street and  More

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Waltham is home to two well respected colleges/universities: Bentley and Brandeis. That, however, is not all. For within half an hour or so, by commuter train or car,  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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