Santa Cruz

Where sun, surf, and sophistication meet.

Welcome to Santa Cruz

Where sun, surf, and sophistication meet.
 
Santa Cruz embodies the quintessential California beach town with its sun-soaked shores and a vibrant cultural tapestry. This enchanting locale offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure. Known for its breathtaking beaches, Santa Cruz serves as a gateway to both the mountains and Silicon Valley, providing residents with endless opportunities for outdoor activities and high-tech pursuits alike.
 
The town is more than just a scenic destination; it's a thriving community equipped with top-notch schools, state-of-the-art hospitals, and an array of dining and shopping options. Its laid-back atmosphere, combined with the availability of modern amenities, creates a lifestyle that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you're enjoying the serene beachfront, exploring the local arts scene, or dining at an upscale restaurant, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of old-school charm and contemporary luxury.
 

What to Love

  • Beach Town Charm: Experience the classic vibe of a Californian beach town.
  • Modern Amenities: Enjoy the convenience of modern facilities like schools and hospitals.
  • Active Lifestyle: Easy access to both beach and mountain activities.
  • Dynamic Culinary Scene: Diverse dining options that cater to all tastes.
  • Cultural Festivities: A rich calendar of local events and festivals.

Local Lifestyle

Residents take pride in their active, outdoorsy lifestyle, with surfing, hiking, and biking as common pastimes. The community spirit is palpable at weekly events such as Friday night bands on the beach or local festivals that celebrate everything from film to clam chowder. The blend of natural beauty, community activities, and access to urban amenities like tech hubs makes Santa Cruz an alluring mix of laid-back and lively, perfect for those who want a balance of work and play.
 

Dining and Shopping

In Santa Cruz, the dining scene is as exciting as its surroundings. O'neil's Restaurant at the Dream Inn offers a splendid menu with ocean views, making it a perfect spot for both locals and visitors to dine by the sea. Meanwhile, Shadowbrook Restaurant in Capitola provides a unique dining experience with its lush garden settings and rustic charm, renowned for its ambiance and gourmet cuisine. For casual outings, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk presents a variety of eateries alongside entertainment options, blending beach fun with tasty treats.
 
Shopping in Santa Cruz can be an adventure in itself, with options like the Capitola Mall offering everything from local boutiques to well-known brands. The town's shops cater to a range of styles and preferences, ensuring that everyone from the eco-conscious shopper to the fashion-forward can find something to love.
 

Things to Do

Santa Cruz is a festival city at heart, hosting numerous cultural events that draw crowds from across the state. The annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off brings together local chefs and clam chowder enthusiasts to compete and savor delicious varieties of this classic dish. Film and music festivals throughout the year offer platforms for both established and emerging artists, enriching the town's cultural landscape.
 
For those who enjoy active pursuits, the iconic train rides from the boardwalk to Felton offer scenic views of the California coastline and its lush hinterlands. Another local favorite is the Wharf to Wharf race, an annual event that combines competitive spirit with spectacular ocean views, attracting runners and spectators alike.
 

Schools

Education in Santa Cruz is highlighted by the presence of the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC). Known for its rigorous academic programs and stunning campus, UCSC adds a buzzing, intellectual energy to the town. It provides not only excellent educational opportunities but also cultural and recreational activities that benefit the entire community.
 

Overview for Santa Cruz, CA

62,714 people live in Santa Cruz, where the median age is 29 and the average individual income is $46,720. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

62,714

Total Population

29 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$46,720

Average individual Income

Around Santa Cruz, CA

There's plenty to do around Santa Cruz, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

84
Very Walkable
Walking Score
100
Biker's Paradise
Bike Score
46
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Chefany's Cakes, Paradise Dogs, and LG Meats Capitola.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining · $$ 0.27 miles 16 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining · $ 1.11 miles 24 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 4.7 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 4.49 miles 11 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.87 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.48 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz has 22,067 households, with an average household size of 2.37. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Santa Cruz do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 62,714 people call Santa Cruz home. The population density is 4,922.59 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

62,714

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

29

Median Age

49.07 / 50.93%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
22,067

Total Households

2.37

Average Household Size

$46,720

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Santa Cruz, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Santa Cruz. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
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