Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz

Where Coastal Charm Meets Bohemian Spirit.

Where Coastal Charm Meets Bohemian Spirit.

Santa Cruz beckons with its unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and laid-back atmosphere. From the iconic boardwalk to the majestic redwoods, each neighborhood within Santa Cruz offers its own distinct charm and character, inviting residents and visitors to explore and discover the treasures of this coastal paradise.

What to Love

  • Abundance of outdoor recreational activities steps from home, including surfing, hiking, and beachcombing.
  • Eclectic arts scene with galleries, live music venues, and street performers.
  • Culinary delights ranging from gourmet eateries to local favorites serving fresh seafood and farm-to-table fare.
  • Sense of community and inclusivity, fostering a welcoming environment for all.

Local Lifestyle

Santa Cruz embodies a relaxed coastal lifestyle infused with a vibrant artistic spirit. Whether you're strolling along the bustling boardwalk, exploring the quaint shops of Downtown Santa Cruz, or catching waves at Pleasure Point, the city exudes a sense of warmth and authenticity. Residents embrace outdoor living, with activities like hiking in the nearby redwood forests, biking along scenic coastal trails, and picnicking on the beach being popular pastimes. The diverse community fosters a culture of creativity and expression, making Santa Cruz a haven for artists, musicians, and free spirits.

Dining and Shopping

Santa Cruz has an active shopping scene and dozens of high-quality restaurants at your disposal. New Leaf Community Market is a blend of the two — a grocery store and destination for fresh, organic, and locally sourced food. Alongside its expansive selection of produce, meats, and specialty items, the market features a deli and cafe serving made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and other delicious offerings.
 
Known for its artisanal bread, pastries, and baked goods made with organic ingredients, Companion Bakeshop is a beloved spot in Santa Cruz. From flaky croissants to hearty sourdough loaves, everything is made with care and attention to detail, creating a truly memorable culinary experience.
 
Mission Street BBQ is a barbecue joint serving mouthwatering smoked meats and classic sides in a casual, laid-back setting. With its flavorful brisket, ribs, pulled pork, homemade sauces, and hearty sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw, it's a go-to spot for barbecue enthusiasts.
 
Café Brasil brings the flavors of Brazil to Santa Cruz with its vibrant and eclectic menu. From traditional Brazilian dishes like feijoada and pão de queijo to tropical-inspired cocktails and fresh fruit juices, the restaurant offers a taste of Brazilian culture in a welcoming and lively atmosphere.
 
Downtown Santa Cruz buzzes with energy, boasting a vibrant mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Browse the eclectic array of boutiques along Pacific Avenue, indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at local eateries, or sip craft cocktails at trendy bars and lounges.
 
Seabright is a coastal gem known for its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic waterfront parks. Enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, browse local art galleries, or relax on the sandy shores of Seabright Beach.
 
Live Oak offers a laid-back suburban feel with easy access to outdoor amenities and community parks. Explore the vibrant farmers' markets, dine at neighborhood cafes, or take a bike ride along the scenic East Cliff Drive.
 
Pleasure Point epitomizes the surfing culture of Santa Cruz, with legendary surf breaks and a relaxed beachside vibe. Indulge in authentic cuisine at local eateries, shop for beach essentials at surf shops, or catch some waves at iconic surf spots like 30th Avenue and the Hook.
 

Entertainment & Things to Do

From world-class surfing to enchanting redwood forests, Santa Cruz offers abundant entertainment and outdoor activities for all ages. Explore the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, hike through the ancient redwoods of Henry Cowell State Park, or embark on a scenic drive along Highway 1. Discover the area's rich cultural heritage at museums and historic sites, or simply soak up the laid-back atmosphere of this coastal gem.

Santa Cruz invites you to experience the beauty, creativity, and adventure that define this vibrant coastal community. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills, cultural enrichment, or simply a relaxing getaway, Santa Cruz promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of California's Central Coast.

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

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 Golden Roots Kitchen, Paradise Dogs, and Elaine's Dance Studio.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Golden Roots Kitchen Logo
Dining 2.82 miles 9 reviews 5/5 stars
Paradise Dogs Logo
Dining · $ 1.11 miles 24 reviews 5/5 stars
Elaine's Dance Studio Logo
Active 3.53 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
California Ocean Adventures Logo
Active 3.19 miles 12 reviews 5/5 stars
Nomad Sailing Charters Logo
Active 1.86 miles 26 reviews 5/5 stars
Raízes do Brasil Capoeira Logo
Active 1.15 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Population Households Employment

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 between 25 and 64 years old. 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: 6.35%

0-9 Years

10-17: 6.16%

10-17 Years

18-24: 31.59%

18-24 Years

25-64: 43.55%

25-64 Years

65-74: 8.28%

65-74 Years

75+: 4.07%

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade 1502 (5%)
  • High School Degree 3994 (14%)
  • Associate Degree 4560 (16%)
  • Bachelor Degree 9867 (35%)
  • Graduate Degree 8239 (29%)
22,067

Total Households

2.37

Average Household Size

$46,720

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children: 4,556 (21%)

Without Children: 17,511 (79%)

Marital Status

Married 26%
Single 52%
Divorced 8%
Separated 3%

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar: 4%

White Collar: 96%

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes 18%
15 to 29 Minutes 14%
30 to 59 Minutes 7%
60+ Minutes 4%
Primary Schools (14)
Middle Schools (3)
High Schools (8)
Mixed Schools (11)
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
Live Oak Elementary
1916 Capitola Rd., Santa Cruz, CA, 95062
PUBLIC
K - 5th
3/5
Happy Valley Elementary
3125 Branciforte Dr., Santa Cruz, CA, 95065
PUBLIC
K - 6th
5/5
Ocean Alternative Education Center
984 Bostwick Ln. Ste. 6, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062
PUBLIC
K - 8th
3/5
Tierra Pacifica Charter
986 Bostwick Ln., Santa Cruz, CA, 95062
PUBLIC
K - 8th
4/5
Santa Cruz Gardens Elementary
8005 Winkle Ave., Santa Cruz, CA, 95065
PUBLIC
K - 5th
3/5
De Laveaga Elementary
1145 Morrissey Blvd., Santa Cruz, CA, 95065
PUBLIC
K - 5th
3/5
For Sale
MLS® ML81958297

$8,500,000

1703 E Cliff DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95062
9 Beds 5 Baths 4,754 Sq.Ft.
For Sale
MLS® ML81958300

$8,500,000

1703 E Cliff DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95062
4,754 Sq.Ft.
Active Under Contract
MLS® ML81986370

$7,500,000

140 Vernon ST, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060
9,399 Sq.Ft.
For Sale
MLS® ML81995718

$6,299,000

1004 W Cliff DR, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
6 Beds 5 Baths 3,236 Sq.Ft.
For Sale
MLS® ML81999446

$5,795,000

940 W Cliff DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060
3 Beds 3 Baths 2,552 Sq.Ft.
For Sale
MLS® ML81999445

$4,995,000

345 Oxford WAY, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060
3 Beds 3.5 Baths 2,330 Sq.Ft.
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Contact Details

Joe Prather | CA DRE# 02001091

(831) 515-8133
joepratherrealtor@gmail.com

Address

101 Cooper St Suite 250

Santa Cruz, CA 95060