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

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Cruz older or younger than people in Oakland?
- The Median Age in Santa Cruz is 7.9 years younger than in Oakland.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Cruz or Oakland?
- Santa Cruz housing costs are 55.1% more expensive than Oakland housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Cruz or Oakland?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Cruz is 8.4 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Oakland.

Things to do in Oakland?
Oakland, California is the vibrant city at the heart of the Bay Area. With its beautiful parks and nature preserves, lively nightlife scene, and booming arts and music scene, there’s something for everyone in this diverse and thriving city. Visitors can explore historical landmarks like Jack London Square or take a stroll through Chinatown. The city also offers plenty of outdoor activities including kayaking on Lake Merritt or hiking through Redwood Regional Park. With its bustling atmosphere, great cultural attractions and countless outdoor experiences to choose from, Oakland is sure to make any visit an unforgettable one!

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.

 Oakland, CASanta Cruz, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock62,714329,725,481
 Median Income$85,628  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2938.4
 Avg. Home Price$819,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time31.86  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Oakland    38 Reviews

I move to Oakland 20yrs ago with high hopes, loved the geography of the city, the diversity is outstanding, and the charm of the older homes is wonderful. When I  More

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Over 4 years ago

Fun place to visit. Little rough is some areas- a lot to do  More

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I moved to Oakland because of its racial diversity in the early eighties although I've seen some ups and downs in this visually beautiful city, it has never been as bad  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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