35 Years of Local Expertise

Santa Cruz County Areas

From the redwood-backed valleys to the beachfront villages — I know every neighborhood in Santa Cruz County and what makes each one special.

Explore the County

Find Your Neighborhood

Santa Cruz County is a collection of distinct communities — each with its own character, price range, and lifestyle. Select an area to learn more.

Aptos / Soquel Country

Established neighborhoods with a quiet, wooded character — beloved for their proximity to Forest of Nisene Marks and a relaxed community feel just minutes from the beach.

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Oceanfront

Direct ocean access across Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties — from sandy beach communities to dramatic bluff-top estates.

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Rio del Mar / Seacliff / Seascape / La Selva

Some of the most desirable beachfront and beach-close properties in the county, ranging from casual coastal bungalows to elegant bluff-top estates.

Explore Rio del Mar
Capitola / Live Oak / Pleasure Point

A vibrant stretch of coastline blending the charm of Capitola Village, the surf culture of Pleasure Point, and the accessibility of Live Oak’s residential neighborhoods.

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Santa Cruz City

The heart of the county — a diverse, walkable city anchored by UC Santa Cruz, the iconic Boardwalk, and a rich mix of historic Victorians, surf cottages, and modern urban homes.

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Scotts Valley

An ideal Silicon Valley commuter community nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains — highly rated schools, newer construction, and easy access to both Highway 17 and downtown Santa Cruz.

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San Lorenzo Valley

A serene corridor of redwood towns — Boulder Creek, Ben Lomond, and Felton — offering a true mountain escape with creekside cabins and forested properties at more accessible price points.

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Corralitos / Watsonville

The agricultural south county — a landscape of apple orchards, berry farms, and rolling hills where rural properties, equestrian estates, and larger parcels offer exceptional value and space.

Explore Corralitos & Watsonville
Why It Matters

Hyperlocal Knowledge You Can’t Google

Santa Cruz County isn’t a single market — it’s dozens of micro-markets stacked against each other. Knowing that one street in Rio del Mar commands a $300,000 premium over the street behind it isn’t something you find on Zillow. It comes from being here.

“I’ve been doing real estate here for 35 years. I know which streets flood, which neighborhoods have the best schools, and where the market is heading next.”

— Walter Stauss, DRE #01105052

Learn About Walter

Not Sure Which Area Fits You?

Tell me your priorities — commute, schools, lifestyle, budget — and I’ll point you toward the neighborhoods that are the best match.

Talk to Walter