The city of Santa Cruz calls to those who desire to relocate in an area where spectacular ocean scenery and a mild year round climate create an ideal environment. A variety of Santa Cruz homes include residences from large estates to single family homes and beach front condominiums. The city includes several distinct regions, each with a unique personality and character. The local communities provide recreational, commercial and educational opportunities for families and single adults. The close proximity to Monterey Bay and Carmel make living in Santa Cruz an exciting and preferable choice when moving to one of California’s central coast areas.

Regions of Santa Cruz

Although the city of Santa Cruz itself is relatively small with a population of approximately 57,000, residents pride themselves in belonging to one of the unique separate neighborhoods that encompass the area. From the beaches to the university campus and downtown area, Santa Cruz combines a resort atmosphere with an educational base and family oriented community.

Santa Cruz Central Region: Known as the “Original Surf City”, a casual beach atmosphere dominates the scene near the famous beaches. One of the oldest amusement parks, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, draws tourists who enjoy the rides, arcade games and snack bars. Seafood restaurants line the streets and the quaint buildings of an earlier era are located a few blocks from the beach. Charming older Santa Cruz homes combine with more contemporary multi-level buildings offering residence opportunities to suit many tastes.

University Area: The University of Santa Cruz area offers views of the Pacific to one side and a large undeveloped region known as the Great Meadow adjacent to the school. The campus sits near the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains and is surrounded by redwood groves yet is an easy commute from central town locations. Santa Cruz homes near University Terrace and the UCSC campus include attached units suitable for students and couples and larger single family homes for educational staff members.

Aptos: The region of Aptos offers an alternative choice for Santa Cruz homes located in a charming village style atmosphere or in a rural setting. Santa Cruz homes in this area may be tucked into a redwood grove, sit along the beachfront or be close to the village. Large sprawling estates offer supreme privacy often with stunning views of Monterey Bay. Homes near the golf course or townhomes along the beachfront provide daily recreation choices.

Interior Regions: In the hillsides above Santa Cruz, many pleasant residential neighborhoods offer quality homes for growing families. In Prospect Heights, for example, Santa Cruz homes set on large lots are situated near the golf course, parks and close to top-rated schools. The area includes both modest smaller homes and many that feature upgrades and add-ons.

Activities found in Santa Cruz

For outdoor sports enthusiasts, the Santa Cruz region offers a year round selection of activities. Water sports including surfing and diving are popular or just spending a day walking along the beach satisfies many residents. The nearby Big Basin Redwoods State Park offers hiking trails and picnic grounds set among the majestic native redwood trees. Many local and regional parks create a feeling of open space where walking paths meander throughout hillsides covered with wildflowers.

Residents also enjoy many cultural activities including a summer concert series, performing arts and ongoing street fairs. Seasonal parades and special events at the Boardwalk delight the children.

Types of Homes for Sale in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is both a popular tourist destination and favorite residential area due to the close proximity to Monterey, 20 miles, and San Francisco, 68 miles. Real estate prices reflect the location and many large estate properties with valuable acreage can be found. The region is also a diverse mixture of Santa Cruz homes with moderate single family homes that often have historic character and charm and offer an affordable option. For those who enjoy simplicity but want to live in a beach resort, an attached property or beachfront Santa Cruz home provides an ideal retreat.

Finding a home in this ideal California location means relocating to an area where pristine natural beauty and plenty of both recreational and cultural activities provide full time enjoyment for all ages.