Moving to Live Oak
Thinking of moving to Live Oak in Santa Cruz? Enjoy this guide to learn about the Santa Cruz real estate market and how to live like a local.
If you're considering a move to Live Oak 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 Live Oak Real Estate
Centrally located in the middle of Santa Cruz County, Live Oak is an unincorporated area. Located just a few blocks inland of Twin Lakes and the coast, this unincorporated community offers the perfect balance of coastal living and accessibility to urban amenities. Although it is just minutes from the beach, Live Oak's locale allows its home prices tobe more affordable than its Twin Lakes and Pleasure Point neighborhoods counter parts along the coast. Live Oak is known for its open spaces, diverse community, and great access to healthcare. In 2024, the real estate market in Santa Cruz's Live Oak neighborhood saw 111 homes sold. The average price of a single-family home during this period was $1.34 million.*
Live Oak real estate offerings include single and two-story single family homes of mixed lot size (some as large as an acre), some condos and townhomes, and several mobile home parks. It offers a variety of home styles to suit every preference and stage of life. Due to the fact there is remaining developable open space in Live Oak, it has seen as surge in new development in recent years and is expected to continue to do so, providing more new construction housing opportunities. Explore Live Oak real estate to find the perfect home.
*Data from MLSListings
Demographics for Live Oak Santa Cruz, CA
Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau and MLSListings.
$1.34m
Average Home Price
22.8 minutes
Avg. Commute
17,038
Population
60.0%
Homeownership Rate
What to Love
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Central Location
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Larger Lot Sizes
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Numerous dining and shopping options
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Outdoor recreational opportunities
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Mild Weather
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Access to Healthcare
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Live Oak has a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Visitors can explore the unique shops, cafes, and restaurants that contribute to the areas' charm.
Where to Eat and Drink:
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Harbor Cafe - Indoor and outdoor picnic table dining at this popular, dog-friendly breakfast spot. Wait can be long so get there early on weekends!
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Aloha Island Grill - Affordable and delicious Hawaiian fare with great lunch and dinner plates.
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Lago Di Como - Fine Italian eatery with fresh pasta and meat dishes.
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Crows Nest - Some of the best views in Santa Cruz can be enjoyed from its upstairs deck during its fantastic happy hour.
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El Palomar - Great breakfast/lunch/dinner options from this Mexican restaurant staple.
Where to Work While Sipping Coffee:
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Coffeetopia - Local coffee spot with gourmet coffee and tea, and a spacious interior with lots of outlets.
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People's Coffee - Popular coffee spot known for its cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Gyms:
- Toadal Fitness - A friendly and low-key health club that also offers childcare and kids adventure camps in the summer. Also offers a sauna and classes.
- Simkins Family Swim Center - Great pool amenities for swimmers of all ages offering recreational memberships and classes.
Things to Do
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Schwann Lagoon: A great place to take your dogs for a walk along oak-studded pathways to Schwann Lagoon Vista Point, which looks out over Twin Lakes State Beach.
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Arana Gulch Open Space Park: An easy 1.1 mile open-aired loop that connects to the Yacht Harbor. Dog-friendly (with leash)!
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Yacht Harbor: Go for a walk to the light house, kayaking, stand up paddle-boarding, or charter a cruise on the Monterey Bay on the Chaminade sailboat or O'neill catamaran.
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Live Oak Farmers Market: Located in the East Cliff Village Shopping center and open Sundays 9am-1pm.
