Cost of Living in Santa Cruz, CA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
225.2
100 = national avg
+125.2 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$99,072
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$234,170
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing375.1
Food135.2
Transportation117.6
Healthcare128.1
Utilities176.1
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$3,298
per month
2 Bedroom
$4,214
per month
The overall cost of living index in Santa Cruz is 225.2, which is 125.2% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 375.1. A single adult needs to earn approximately $99,072 per year to cover basic expenses.