If you're considering a move to any part of Santa Cruz County and would like expert guidance on finding the best neighborhood to buy a home for your lifestyle, I am here to help! As a second generation top Santa Cruz real estate agent that has lived in almost every part of the County, I know this area from stem to stern. Santa Cruz County is equally as good a place to retire as it is to raise a family, with a multitude of amenities and activities for every stage of life that allow for a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Please peruse my neighborhood guides and BLOG and don’t hesitate to reach out for more insights into each of our wonderful neighborhoods, including tips only a born-and-raised local would know! From microclimates to commute times, childcare resources, outdoor activities, and community events, consider me your personal concierge when it comes to moving to Santa Cruz and living the good life.
About East Side Santa Cruz Real Estate
East Side Santa Cruz, well known for its "Midtown" and "Seabright" neighborhoods is conveniently located, you guessed it - just east of Downtown Santa Cruz. Just a short 30-minute drive from Silicon Valley, the East Side offers the perfect balance of coastal suburban living and access to urban amenities. Some info about specific East Side Santa Cruz neighborhoods:
Midtown - This desirable and central area is both easy access to Downtown Santa Cruz, the beach, and a multitude of amenities along Soquel Avenue. This area has seen a resurgence in recent years with many new businesses and community events.
Seabright - Backing up to Seabright beach, this coastal area just west of Midtown is highly desirable due to its proximities to both Santa Cruz's East and West Sides as well as its large pristine beach (though you won't find many surf spots along it).
Prospect Heights - This quiet, suburban area backing up to De La Veaga Golf Course is desirable for many both for its sunny weather and easy commute to 17 and other parts of town.
East Side Santa Cruz real estate offerings include charming coastal homes, luxury ocean view townhomes, some large Victorians, as well as some 2-4 unit multi-residential properties. In 2024, the real estate market in East Side Santa Cruz saw 95 homes sold for an average price of $1.33m, which is more than $200k cheaper on average than homes sold on the nearby West Side.* Explore East Side Santa Cruz real estate to find the perfect home.
*Data from MLSListings
Demographics for East Side Santa Cruz, CA
Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau and MLSListings.
$1.33m
Average Home Price
23.4 minutes
Avg. Commute
20,359
Population
What to Love
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Central location
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Numerous dining and shopping options
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Seabright Beach
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Frequent community events
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Mild weather
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
East Side Santa Cruz has a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Here are a few of my favorites:
Where to Eat and Drink:
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Lillian's Kitchen - Family-run Italian kitchen. Don't miss the Sunday Gravy or Prawns Diavola.
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Charlie Hong Kong - Organic noodle and rice bowls. Spicy Dan's Delight is a must-try!
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Akira Sushi - Some of the best Sushi in Santa Cruz!
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The Buttery - Cakes, pastries, breads, espresso bar and deli.
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Tra Monti - Delicious Italian and Pizzas.
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Seabright Social - The old home of the Seabright Brewery with an updated menu and still a great selection of draft beers.
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Seabright Deli - Insanely good cold and hot sandwiches to go.
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Shoppers Corner - Old school grocery with fantastic butcher counter, produce department and wine selection.
Where to Work While Sipping Coffee:
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Java Junction - Full menu of coffee drinks with room to mingle or plug in your computer.
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Lulu Carpenter's Drive Through - Great Coffee and baked goods but not a great place to work unless you are charging your car at the Tesla superchargers outside.
Things to Do
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Midtown Fridays - The Midtown Block Party every Friday from 5-9 has been a popular event with life music and local vendors.
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Seabright Beach - Large, half-mile sandy beach great for bonfires (dog friendly - on leash!)
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Rio Theatre - This once-movie-theatre venue always has a fantastic line-up including many big names on its calendar.
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Crows Nest Beach Party - Just on the other side of the Yacht Harbor, enjoy live music and food on Thursday nights in the summer.
