Cost of Living in Santa Cruz County, CA

What does it cost to live in Santa Cruz County? Income, housing, and affordability breakdown.

Median Income

$104,409

Median Rent

$2,094/mo

Median Home

$951,300

Affordability

155

Housing Cost Breakdown

Owning (20% down, 6.5%)

Mortgage (P&I)$4,810
Property Tax$499
Insurance$317

Total Monthly$5,626
% of Income64.7%

Renting

Median Rent$2,094
Renter's Insurance$25

Total Monthly$2,119
% of Income24.1%

Living in Santa Cruz County, California

Santa Cruz County has a median household income of $104,409 with housing costs that represent 64.7% of income for owners and 24.1% for renters. Housing costs exceed the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting affordability challenges.

The affordability index of 155 (100 = median income perfectly covers median housing costs) gives a quick snapshot. Use our calculator for a comprehensive comparison across counties, including taxes, utilities, healthcare, and commute costs.

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Other Counties in California

County-level data from U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 2022 5-Year Estimates. Additional sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bureau of Economic Analysis. Estimates are county-level medians. This is not financial advice.