Laurel, MD vs Santa Cruz, CA
Side-by-side comparison of housing, income, commute, safety, and quality of life.
Score Snapshot
No universal winner
Scores summarize the published model. Use the objective metric differences below and your own priorities to choose.
Laurel
66.4
#1547 nationally
Santa Cruz
60.5
#1932 nationally
Laurel leads in cost of living index (125 vs 205). Laurel leads in crime level (10.8 vs 16.8). Santa Cruz leads in average commute (22.2 min vs 33.5 min).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | Laurel, MD | Santa Cruz, CA |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 66.4 (#1547) | 60.5 (#1932) |
| Population | 29,400 | 61,501 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $478,130 | $1,360,355 |
| Median Household Income | $92,035 | $105,491 |
| Average Commute | 33.5 min | 22.2 min |
| Walk Score | 53 | 63 |
| Crime Level | 10.8 | 16.8 |
| School Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Cost of Living Index | 125 | 205 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | D+13.9 | D+54.4 |
D
66.4 Score
Laurel, MD
Small Maryland city with local appeal
Median Home
$478,130
Population
29,400
Crime
Moderate-High
Walk Score
53
Northeast
View Laurel, MD →
D-
60.5 Score
Santa Cruz, CA
California community balancing growth and livability
Median Home
$1,360,355
Population
61,501
Crime
High
Walk Score
63
Pacific
View Santa Cruz, CA →