RANK #791 / 996 · POP 268,571 · CA
PROJECTED GROWTH: -0.5%
Santa Cruz County, California, is distinguished by its dramatic natural landscape, where redwood forests meet the Pacific Ocean. The city of Santa Cruz, the county seat, is about 65 miles south of San Francisco and 35 miles southwest of Silicon Valley, offering a blend of coastal living and access to major urban centers. Commuting to Silicon Valley is common, with options including personal vehicles on Highway 17 and tech shuttles. The community has a relaxed, progressive atmosphere, known for its surf culture and commitment to environmental consciousness. Outdoor recreation is a significant draw, with 29 miles of beaches, numerous state parks like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and opportunities for surfing, hiking, mountain biking, and tide pooling.
Life in Santa Cruz County is characterized by its natural amenities and a focus on outdoor activities. The county attracts a diverse population, including students attending the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC), and individuals seeking a laid-back lifestyle. Public schools in the county are highly rated, with ten public school districts serving approximately 40,000 students. The local economy is supported by technology, agriculture, and tourism. Recent economic developments include efforts to revitalize areas like the San Lorenzo River Walk with mixed-use housing and commercial projects, and incentives to activate vacant storefronts. However, the county also faces challenges with a high cost of living and housing affordability.
Overvalued relative to economy
Above national median
Below national median
Prices detached from rents
Housing looks overvalued at 15.3x — home prices are high relative to local economic output. Climate and geography support a structural premium. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Santa Cruz County has a Boom Town Index score of 21/100, ranking #791 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at +1.1% and a median household income of $104,409, it faces some economic headwinds compared to faster-growing counties.
The median home value in Santa Cruz County is $951,300 with median rent at $2,094/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.1098, which is less affordable than the national average.
Population growth: -1.3% year-over-year. Job growth: +1.1%. Home values changed +1.0% in the past 12 months.
Yes — 6.0% of Santa Cruz County's population moved from another state, which is above the national average and indicates strong in-migration.