Aptos, Santa Cruz | Community Guide

Welcome to Aptos

Central Coast Bliss and Serene Living.

Situated along California's stunning central coast, Aptos offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and unhurried living. Known for its picturesque beaches, lush green spaces, and vibrant community spirit, Aptos provides an idyllic setting for residents and visitors alike. With its mild Mediterranean climate and wide range of amenities, Aptos attracts those seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle with easy access to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

Aptos, with its stunning beaches, rolling hills, and redwood forests, offers a visually stunning landscape characteristic of the Northern California coast. The town has a peaceful and serene atmosphere, a respite from the hustle and bustle of larger urban areas, making it a relaxing place for residents and visitors alike. The area offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to surfing and beachcombing.

What to Love

Coastal charm: Enjoy miles of pristine beaches and breathtaking ocean views.
Outdoor paradise: Explore scenic parks, hiking trails, and golf courses nestled amidst natural beauty.
Community vibe: Embrace a tight-knit community where neighbors become friends and local events foster a sense of belonging.
Convenient amenities: Access to boutique shops, delicious eateries, and essential services within proximity.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Discover top-rated schools, recreational activities, and family-friendly attractions.

Local Lifestyle

Aptos embodies a serene coastal vibe, where life moves at a slower pace, and residents prioritize quality time spent outdoors. Surrounded by towering redwoods and sparkling seas, Aptos offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're lounging on the beach, exploring scenic hiking trails, or savoring locally sourced cuisine at charming cafes, Aptos invites you to relax, rejuvenate, and embrace the simple pleasures of coastal living.

Dining and Shopping

Aptos is a haven for culinary enthusiasts and avid shoppers, offering diverse dining experiences and unique shopping destinations. Step into the charming boutiques and galleries of Aptos Village, where you'll uncover a delightful assortment of one-of-a-kind gifts, artisanal crafts, and locally crafted treasures.

Satisfy your appetite with farm-to-table delights at acclaimed establishments like Cafe Sparrow, or indulge in the ocean-fresh seafood and breathtaking views at Sevy's Bar + Kitchen. For those craving barbecue bliss, Aptos St. BBQ is a must-visit, while Marianne’s Ice Cream serves scoops of creamy perfection.

Deluxe Foods of Aptos is a high-end grocery store offering a variety of gourmet foods, local produce, and a well-regarded deli section. Although not a permanent shop, Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College is a notable destination for fresh, local produce and artisanal goods, and it's a regular weekend event that locals and visitors alike look forward to. Whether you're seeking gourmet dining experiences, casual cafes, or vibrant farmers markets, Aptos promises a culinary journey tailored to every taste and preference.

Entertainment and Things to Do

In Aptos, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration. Lace up your hiking boots and discover the scenic wonders of Nisene Marks State Park, where ancient redwoods and lush ferns create a magical forest sanctuary. Known for its fishing pier and the famous concrete ship SS Palo Alto, Seacliff State Beach is an excellent place for picnics, fishing, and RV camping with stunning ocean views.

Outdoor recreation in Aptos extends beyond its glorious state parks and beaches. Many areas in Aptos are dog-friendly, including certain beaches and parks, which is a plus for pet owners. Aptos is close to various organic farms and is part of a region known for its commitment to sustainable agriculture and farm-to-table dining experiences. Meanwhile, golfers can tee off at world-class courses like Seascape Golf Club.

Aptos hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year, including the popular Santa Cruz County Fair and the annual Aptos Fourth of July Parade. With its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and vibrant cultural scene, Aptos offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Overview for Aptos, CA

6,372 people live in Aptos, where the median age is 53.5 and the average individual income is $64,912. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

6,372

Total Population

53.5 years

Median Age

High

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

$64,912

Average individual Income

Around Aptos, CA

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

2

Car-Dependent

Walking Score

13

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Shockwave, Castelli Fashions, and Monarch Pilates.

Name	Category	Distance	Reviews	Ratings by Yelp
Visit the Shockwave page on Yelp	Dining	4.45 miles	10 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Castelli Fashions page on Yelp Search 2121 41st Ave on Google Maps	Shopping	4.06 miles	43 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Monarch Pilates page on Yelp Search 4125 Portola Dr on Google Maps	Active	4.35 miles	24 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Crossfit Kel-Core page on Yelp Search 1248 Thompson Ave on Google Maps	Active	4.53 miles	8 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Lola's Gym page on Yelp Search 4061 Soquel Dr on Google Maps	Active	3.98 miles	6 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Curves page on Yelp Search 7000 Soquel Dr on Google Maps	Active	1.4 miles	7 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Slow Adventure page on Yelp	Active	1.12 miles	7 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Urban Sanctuary Yoga and Boutique page on Yelp Search 3617 B Portola Dr on Google Maps	Active	4.55 miles	5 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Laurie Teitzel page on Yelp Search 601 Capitola Ave on Google Maps	Beauty	3.46 miles	15 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Expressions By Kelly G page on Yelp Search 7963 Soquel Dr on Google Maps	Beauty	1.18 miles	7 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Krishna Leikind, CMT page on Yelp	Beauty	1.35 miles	7 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Novella Aesthetic Studio page on Yelp Search 9051 Soquel Dr on Google Maps	Beauty	1.04 miles	19 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Saving Face Skin Solutions page on Yelp Search 40 Seascape Village on Google Maps	Beauty	2.79 miles	7 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Tamar Leffert CMT page on Yelp	Beauty	3.29 miles	16 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Today's Skin Solutions page on Yelp Search 800 Huntington Dr on Google Maps	Beauty	1.22 miles	6 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Adorn Apothecary page on Yelp Search 9099 Soquel Dr on Google Maps	Beauty	1.12 miles	7 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Chelsey @ Industry Hair Studio page on Yelp Search 601 Capitola Ave on Google Maps	Beauty	3.46 miles	31 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Lara Caldas Hair page on Yelp Search 1220 41st Ave on Google Maps	Beauty	4.17 miles	8 reviews	5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Aptos, CA

Population Households Employment

Aptos has 2,621 households, with an average household size of 2.43. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Aptos do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 6,372 people call Aptos home. The population density is 968.67 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

6,372

Total Population

High

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

53.5

Median Age

43.08 / 56.92%

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

2,621

Total Households

2.43

Average Household Size

$64,912

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 Aptos, CA

All ()

Primary Schools ()

Middle Schools ()

High Schools ()

Mixed Schools ()

The following schools are within or nearby Aptos. 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