Pristine beaches, towering coastal redwoods, rolling hills, a world-class university, and proximity to the Bay Area define Santa Cruz as a place for the extraordinary. This historic surf town, nestled along California’s Highway 1, boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year and mild temperatures year round. As a center for organic agriculture and high-tech companies, the area is alive with families, artists, local business owners, surfers, students, and visitors who return year after year. Whether you are a young professionals looking to launch your career, a family looking for a place to call home, or someone looking for a community that embraces you, you are sure to find your tribe in Santa Cruz.
This historic surf town, nestled along California’s Highway 1, boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year and mild temperatures year round.
Given its superb natural environment, bustling economy, and culture of wellbeing, it is no surprise that Santa Cruz is home to some of the happiest Californians. According to the 2017 Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, the Santa Cruz region was California’s highest-ranked metropolitan area. In the study, 76% of Santa Cruzians reported that they “learn or do something interesting every day.” The town is characterized by a small-town feel, relaxed atmosphere, and sense of community.
There is a strong culture of wellness and sustainability, as evidenced by the abundance of yoga studios, crossfit gyms, bike trails, organic restaurants, natural grocers, and farmers markets scattered throughout the town. Its proximity to nearby farms and California’s Central Valley means that produce is lush and plentiful year round. Even more, the sunny, temperate climate makes it just as easy to grow produce right in your backyard garden.
76% of Santa Cruzians reported that they “learn or do something interesting every day.”
Situated just 65 miles south of San Francisco, Santa Cruz makes it easy to work in the dynamic, robust Bay Area economy and return to a laid-back, small-town at night. In the city itself, there is a spirited start-up culture, tech economy, and a plethora of coworking spaces in town. The city was named the #6 best city for future job growth, according to Forbes, and is #4 in the nation for women-owned businesses. The University of California, Santa Cruz has a significant impact on the local economy, contributing over $1.3 billion to the region. The university also contributes to the highly educated makeup of the community, with over half of Santa Cruzians holding at least a Bachelor’s degree.
There is a spirited start-up culture, tech economy, and a plethora of coworking spaces in town.
Named one of the world’s top 20 surf towns by National Geographic, Santa Cruz has upheld its surfing-centric identity for decades. The town’s famous surf breaks will keep any board rider happy, whether you’re an aspiring grom or a seasoned kahuna. Beyond the breaks, the ocean’s marine sanctuary proves a renowned playground for kitesurfers, kayakers, SUPers, scuba divers, and sailors alike. On land, the nearby Santa Cruz mountains—blanketed in coastal redwoods—boast scores of world-class mountain biking, hiking, and running trails. The mild climate means that Santa Cruzians can enjoy the outdoors year round.
Santa Cruz has cosmopolitan flare, with a vibrant downtown scene bustling with vintage clothing stores, cafes, craft breweries, and art galleries. World-class music, art, and entertainment are found at every corner. In the summer, free beach concerts at the world-famous boardwalk, provide rock, reggae, hip hop, world-beat, electronic, unbeatable jazz, comedy, drama for everyone.
A vibrant downtown scene is bustling with vintage clothing stores, cafes, craft breweries, and art galleries.
