Santa Cruz County, AZ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
48,926
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,217/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
19,232
1.2% year-over-year change

Santa Cruz County population

How many people live in Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County is home to 48,926 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.3% of Santa Cruz County locals are male, and 51.7% are female.

Total population
48,926
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.3%
23,612
Female
51.7%
25,314
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,612 48.3% 1.5%
Female 25,314 51.7% 1.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Santa Cruz County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.1% are children under 15, then 13.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 22.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.1%
15 to 24
13.9%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
22.6%
Over 65
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 10,303 21.1% 0.0%
15 to 24 6,798 13.9% 2.9%
25 to 44 11,328 23.2% 1.8%
45 to 64 11,070 22.6% 0.2%
Over 65 9,427 19.3% 3.3%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Santa Cruz County, 63.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 22.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 28.5% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 12.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 57.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
63.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
22.5%
Non-citizens
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 31,213 63.8% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 11,027 22.5% 3.8%
Non-citizens 6,686 13.7% 3.7%
Racial breakdown
White
28.5%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
57.2%
Other
12.9%
Value Percent
White 13,936 28.5%
Black or African American 119 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 282 0.6%
Asian 143 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 144 0.3%
Two or more races 27,981 57.2%
Other 6,321 12.9%

Households in Santa Cruz County

A peek inside Santa Cruz County households

Santa Cruz County has 16,966 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 72.4% are families, while the remaining 27.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
16,966
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,676
Family households
12,290
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,676 27.6% -0.9%
Family households 12,290 72.4% 1.6%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Santa Cruz County

The housing landscape of Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County's housing consists of 19,232 units, with 70.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 6.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
19,232
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,523 70.3%
1 unit, attached 1,616 8.4%
2 units 700 3.6%
3 or 4 units 995 5.2%
5 to 9 units 718 3.7%
10 to 19 units 200 1%
20 to 49 units 48 0.2%
50 or more units 116 0.6%
Mobile home 1,300 6.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 16 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
239
68.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Cruz County

In Santa Cruz County, the median construction year is 1991. About 3.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 23.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 633 3.3% -16.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 364 1.9% 73.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 948 4.9% -8.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,260 6.6% -4.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,375 17.6% 1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,618 13.6% -6.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,577 18.6% 0.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,601 23.9% 3.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,617 8.4% 19.3%
Built in 2020 or later 239 1.2% 68.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Santa Cruz County occupancy rates

Out of the 16,966 occupied housing units in Santa Cruz County, 69.2% are owner-occupied, while 30.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
16,966
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,217
Owner occupied
11,749
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,217 30.8% -1.9%
Owner occupied 11,749 69.2% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
11.8%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Santa Cruz County housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Cruz County come to a median of $910 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $829.

Median housing costs per month
$910/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Santa Cruz County
$829/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County education at a glance

About 42.6% of the population in Santa Cruz County went to high school, while 19.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 12.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,218 8.9% 0.4%
High school diploma 15,483 42.6% 5.7%
College diploma 6,986 19.2% 3.0%
Associate degree 3,061 8.4% -4.0%
Bachelor's degree 4,583 12.6% -7.8%
Graduate degree 2,989 8.2% 5.7%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Santa Cruz County

How much people earn in Santa Cruz County

The average annual household income in Santa Cruz County was $71,913 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,217, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Cruz County
$71,913/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Cruz County
$55,217/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Santa Cruz County income by age

In Santa Cruz County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,202. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,447 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $25,795, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,462 in earnings. Overall, 79.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $25,795 26.8%
25 - 44 $60,202 -3.8%
45 - 64 $61,447 2.1%
Over 65 $44,462 2.0%
Above poverty level
38,603
Below poverty level
9,704
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 38,603 79.9% 1.7%
Below poverty level 9,704 20.1% 1.4%

Employment in Santa Cruz County

Workforce and job types in Santa Cruz County

The job market in Santa Cruz County is powered by 19,098 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.3% run their own businesses, 58.9% are employed by private companies, and 20.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
19,098
1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
13,633
Blue collar
5,465
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,633 71.4% -1.0%
Blue collar 5,465 28.6% 7.0%
Employer type
Self employees
12.3%
Private companies
58.9%
Governmental workers
20.5%
Not for profit companies
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,346 12.3% 12.5%
Private companies 11,254 58.9% 0.8%
Governmental workers 3,910 20.5% 5.7%
Not for profit companies 1,588 8.3% -17.8%
Unemployment rate
12.2%
19.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Santa Cruz County stands at 12.2%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Santa Cruz County

How people get around in Santa Cruz County

In Santa Cruz County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
-0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,272 87.7% -1.6%
Taxicab 90 0.5% -28.6%
Bus or trolleybus 57 0.3% -57.5%
Motorcycle 129 0.7% 10.3%
Bicycle 84 0.4% -5.6%
Walk 223 1.2% -3.5%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Santa Cruz County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
85611 1,454 585 $91,458 $94,758
85621 21,593 7,186 $43,464 $59,953
85624 1,546 756 $56,053 $71,186
85637 1,105 477 $99,688 $131,935
85640 207 85 $55,417 $46,024
85645 1,249 600 $60,714 $71,891
85646 1,345 746 $73,438 $88,065
85648 22,118 7,240 $61,519 $77,789

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FAQs about Santa Cruz County demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Cruz County?

Santa Cruz County has a total population of 48,926 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Santa Cruz County?

The gender ratio in Santa Cruz County is as follows:
  • 48.3% males (23,612 residents)
  • 51.7% females (25,314 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Cruz County?

The median age in Santa Cruz County is 37.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Santa Cruz County?

The age distribution in Santa Cruz County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.1% (10,303 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.9% (6,798 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (11,328 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.6% (11,070 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.3% (9,427 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Cruz County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Cruz County is as follows:
  • White: 28.5% (13,936 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (119 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (282 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (143 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (144 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 57.2% (27,981 residents)
  • Other: 12.9% (6,321 residents)

What percentage of the population in Santa Cruz County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 63.8% of the population in Santa Cruz County.

How many housing units are there in Santa Cruz County?

There are 19,232 housing units in Santa Cruz County, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Santa Cruz County and what is the average household size?

Santa Cruz County has a total of 16,966 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Cruz County?

Santa Cruz County has a median household income of $55,217, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Santa Cruz County?

The employment rate is 87.8% in Santa Cruz County, with a workforce of 19,098 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.4% (13,633 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.6% (5,465 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.3% (2,346 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.9% (11,254 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.5% (3,910 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.3% (1,588 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025