Market Overview
Home Prices in Santa Cruz, CA
The median home value in Santa Cruz, CA is $1,365,773 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI).That's up 4.3% compared to a year ago and down 2.9% from two years prior.
Compared to the U.S. national median of $410,000, homes in Santa Cruz are priced233% above average. Santa Cruz is part of the Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA metro area.
Over the past five years, Santa Cruz home values have risen by approximately14.9%, reflecting steady appreciation in this market.
Price History
Santa Cruz Home Price Trend
City Comparison
Santa Cruz vs. National Median
At $1,365,773, homes in Santa Cruz cost 233% above the national median of $410,000. Buyers in Santa Cruz should expect to pay a premium compared to most U.S. markets.
Affordability
What Does It Cost to Buy in Santa Cruz?
20% Down Payment
$273,155
on $1,365,773
Monthly P&I
$7,123/mo
30-yr @ 6.8%
Total Monthly Est.
~$9,046/mo
incl. taxes & insurance
Income Needed
$361,840
gross annual (30% rule)
10% Down Option
$136,577
+ PMI applies
Loan Amount (20% dn)
$1,092,618
at current rates
Estimates assume a 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.8%. Monthly total includes estimated property taxes and homeowner's insurance. Actual costs vary.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average home price in Santa Cruz, CA?
The median home value in Santa Cruz is $1,365,773 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI). That's up 4.3% year-over-year.
How much have home prices changed in Santa Cruz?
Over the past year, home values in Santa Cruz have increased by 4.3%. Over five years, prices have risen approximately 14.9%.
How much do I need to earn to buy a home in Santa Cruz?
To comfortably afford the median home price of $1,365,773 with a 20% down payment ($273,155) at today's rates (6.8%), you'd need a gross annual income of approximately $361,840. This assumes keeping total housing costs at or below 30% of gross income.
How does Santa Cruz compare to the national average home price?
The national median home value is approximately $410,000. At $1,365,773, homes in Santa Cruz are 233% above the national average.
What metro area is Santa Cruz part of?
Santa Cruz is part of the Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA metropolitan area. Home prices and market conditions can vary across the broader metro region.