Where Work & Culture Converge:

Supporting the Economic Vitality of Santa Cruz

A Go-To Resource for Economic Development in Santa Cruz

Why We Choose Santa Cruz

A morning surf session. An easy bike ride to Companion Bakeshop. A quick stop at Verve Coffee Roasters. Working through the day at NextSpace Coworking, a local startup, a bike maker, or your own business. Wrap up the day at the latest popup at The Food Lounge or take the kids Downtown to check out Dance Week. This is a day in the life of the average Santa Cruz professional. This is Santa Cruz.

Near Silicon Valley & the SF Bay

Fresh Talent @ UC Santa Cruz

Committed Infrastructure Growth

An Accepting, Diverse Community

Unparalleled Natural Environment

Surf at sunrise. Bike to Westside restaurants, breweries, & wineries. Stop for coffee and baked goods on your way to work at a local or international business. Wrap up the day at a popup, shopping, or take the kids Downtown for an event or stroll down Pacific. This is why people choose to live and work in Santa Cruz.

Choose Santa Cruz is the flagship program of the Santa Cruz Economic Development Department. Dedicated to being a helpful, trustworthy, transparent, and responsive team, we’re passionate about supporting a flourishing and expansive local economy and committed to serving the community. Seriously, we’re here to help.

Industries

Culture and environment have strongly influenced the development of industry in Santa Cruz.

Resources Index

A Partner in City Government

Culture

The Santa Cruz Experience