Santa Cruz Gardens

Santa Cruz Gardens, a scenic suburban neighborhood nestled in the hills of Santa Cruz, California. The neighborhood is a lovely blend of privacy, comfort, and accessibility, making it an ideal place for families and individuals alike.

Overview

Santa Cruz Gardens offers a unique residential experience. The neighborhood is perched atop a hill, providing a sense of seclusion and stunning views of the mountains. Some lucky homeowners even enjoy ocean vistas. The community is a family-friendly environment with numerous basketball hoops adorning the streets, fostering a nurturing atmosphere for children.

The Origin of Santa Cruz Gardens

The neighborhood was developed by Hal Porter in the 1970s, responding to the growing demand for larger homes for growing families. The development starts at the foot of Thurber Lane and ascends to a sunny plateau. The homes exhibit a wide variety, reflecting different models and architectural styles over time.

Real Estate Landscape

Santa Cruz Gardens houses are diverse in size and price. They range from modest 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-story homes to larger 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom residences. Current prices vary from $1,499,000 to $3,195,000, while recent recorded closed prices span from $999,000 to $1,800,000. The average price per square foot stands at $842, with the median sale price being $1,330,000.

Housing Styles and Sizes

Homes in Santa Cruz Gardens initially had about eight different models. As the neighborhood expanded, newer developments were introduced on Waugh Street, adding variety to the housing design. Sizes range from approximately 1,300 to 4,000 square feet. Many homes are single-level, ranch-style homes built in the 1960s and 70s, but there are also more modern and two-level homes in the area.

Santa Cruz Gardens Elementary School

The Santa Cruz Gardens neighborhood is home to the Santa Cruz Gardens Elementary School, offering convenient access to education for families with children. This is one of the many reasons why the area is so attractive to families.

Community Amenities

The community features a swimming pool, offering a refreshing way to cool off during the summer months. Membership is available for a small fee, and children can benefit from swim lessons. This feature enhances the neighborhood’s appeal, particularly as it’s often above the fog line, providing plenty of sunshine.

Another wonderful feature of the Santa Cruz Gardens neighborhood is the easy access to the Chaminade Nature Trail hiking loop.  This is a 2.4 mile loop with moderate elevation that is dog-friendly and takes walkers through verdant forests and gorgeous rolling hills.

Access and Location

One of Santa Cruz Gardens’ most attractive features is its accessible location. The neighborhood is just minutes away from the freeway, making it an ideal spot for commuters. Additionally, the proximity to Dominican and Sutter hospitals and shopping centers adds to its convenience.

Home Valuation

To understand the value of your Santa Cruz Gardens home, you can take advantage of free home valuation services. By utilizing these services, homeowners can gain an accurate understanding of their property’s worth in the current real estate market.

Purchasing a Home in Santa Cruz Gardens

Interested parties can set an alert to be notified when new homes are listed for sale in Santa Cruz Gardens. By doing so, prospective buyers can stay up-to-date with the latest offerings in this highly sought-after neighborhood.

Conclusion

Santa Cruz Gardens is a unique community that offers a blend of comfort, accessibility, and family-friendly amenities. Its diverse range of homes, proximity to essential services, and stunning views make it a highly desirable neighborhood in Santa Cruz, California. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to invest in the real estate market, Santa Cruz Gardens is a neighborhood worth considering.

For more information about the Santa Cruz Gardens neighborhood and other Santa Cruz areas, feel free to contact me at any time.

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