Santa Cruz Homes under $1 million

Welcome to Santa Cruz, California, a coastal gem nestled between the serene Pacific Ocean and the majestic redwood forests. Known for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and vibrant arts scene, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. With its iconic boardwalk, eclectic shops, and delicious dining options, this charming city is perfect for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle infused with adventure.

For homebuyers looking to settle in this picturesque locale, you’ll be delighted to discover that there are beautiful homes available for under $1 million. Whether you envision a cozy bungalow just a stone's throw from the beach or a spacious family home surrounded by towering redwoods, Santa Cruz has a variety of options to suit your needs.

The real estate market here is as diverse as the community itself, featuring everything from historic properties with character to modern new builds. Many homes in this price range are conveniently located near schools, parks, and local amenities, making it easy to enjoy all that Santa Cruz has to offer.

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing and the scent of fresh ocean air, all while being part of a community that values sustainability and creativity. With an array of outdoor activities at your doorstep, including hiking, surfing, and biking, life in Santa Cruz is an invitation to embrace the great outdoors.

Don’t miss your chance to call this enchanting city home! Explore the possibilities of living in Santa Cruz and discover the perfect home that fits your lifestyle—all under $1 million. Your dream coastal living awaits!

Newest Santa Cruz Homes under $1 million

$650,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ ML82063460 MLS

Ultimate Live/Work Compound in Midtown Santa Cruz, CA. Unlock the ultimate coastal lifestyle with this rare mixed-use masterpiece in the sun-drenched "Banana Belt." Nestled in trendy, walkable Midtown Santa Cruz, just steps from the Rio Theatre, The Buttery, and local craft breweries, this unique complex offers high-visibility commercial real estate paired with a deeply private residential retreat. Commercial Potential: Command premier attention with a high daily traffic volume of 12K31K vehicles. The versatile storefront features soaring open-concept ceilings and flexible entry options, perfect for an upscale boutique, showroom, or professional agency. Private Residence is a hidden 1,400 SF, 2-story oasis featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Step outside to an incredibly private, 600 SF gated patio and garden courtyard, for quiet mornings or evening entertaining. Rustic Structure, a separate 1,200 sq. ft. rear structure radiating an authentic arts-and-crafts vibe. Currently a bike shop, it's a blank canvas for a world-class music studio, creative agency, or maker-space. Embrace hipster-chic energy with premier commercial presence. Permitted street parking available. Experience the perfect synergy of business and sanctuary. Tenancy In Common buys 50 percent of entire property.

1250 Soquel AVE, Santa Cruz

Listed by Paul Zech, 831-247-3007 from Coldwell Banker Realty
(If provided) CoList: from

$352,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ ML82063143 MLS ⋅ ShangriLa BLDG.

This could be your beach house. With some of your special touches, you could have a delightful home near our beautiful coast. Bright and open living and dining areas. There is a private, shaded porch and a sunny yard. Room to do some gardening. The primary bedroom has a large walk in closet. You have two full bathrooms and a laundry room. Shangri La is a 62+ park. Located close to all the amenities you find on 41st Avenue. Only a few blocks to Pleasure Point for the sunset. Bring your creative style to this sweet home.

1040 38th AVE 43, Santa Cruz

Listed by Shelley Patton, 831-818-3771 from Coldwell Banker Realty
(If provided) CoList: from

$688,000

1 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ ML82063024 MLS ⋅ Frederick Street Commons BLDG.

Some homes make everyday life easy, and this Seabright condo is one of them. Tucked away on the upper floor with elevator access, it offers light-filled, single-level living, soaring ceilings, an open layout, and distant views toward the Harbor that make mornings feel a little brighter. The floor plan is what makes this home especially practical: a spacious bedroom plus a true second room that's ready to become a home office, guest room, workout space, or creative retreat. Hardwood floors, a gas fireplace, and a generous private balcony create comfortable spaces to unwind after a day at the beach or around town. The kitchen keeps things simple with granite slab countertops, stainless steel appliances, a new refrigerator and gas range, and plenty of room to cook without feeling crowded. The secure building includes a locked lobby, gated parking, private and bike storage, plus shared spaces like a bocce court, fire pit, garden courtyard, and gathering room. From here, it's easy to leave the car behind. Walk to Akira Sushi, Staff of Life, Lillian's, the Rio Theatre, Santa Cruz Harbor, Arana Gulch trails, and nearby beaches. It's the kind of place that quietly fits into your routine and makes Seabright easy to enjoy.

708 Frederick ST 309, Santa Cruz

Listed by Teresa Marlow, 831-818-3430 from Compass
(If provided) CoList: from

$899,500

1 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ ML82063078 MLS

Eastside Cottage With Room To Grow! This sweet 1Bd. 1Ba. will surprise you! It is bright, updated, and feels very open. It is at the forefront of the lot so there is a long driveway to the detached one- car garage, and big open space in the back of the lot. The lot backs up to alley access. Maybe add another home in the back, and make the cottage an ADU? Or add on to this charming cottage, and build a large garage in the back? Maybe you always wanted a sunny open lot to plant those fruit trees? The convenient location offers quick access for commuting, or head to downtown for the live music, eateries, and shopping. Come explore and see what you think!

125 Lee ST, Santa Cruz

Listed by Caren Spencer, 831-251-1112 from Compass
(If provided) CoList: from

$399,000

1 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ ML82062964 MLS ⋅ Frederick Street Commons BLDG.

City of Santa Cruz Measure O Unit! First time on market! This original owner has enjoyed living in this unit! Who will be the lucky one who gets to live here next? Seller said Sell it!! Listed lower than the county price of $442,362. So, at $399,000 list price you get built in equity when you purchase! Yes, there are income limits. What an opportunity to live in East Side Santa Cruz in a 2015 building with secure parking and locked front entrance and lobby. It's walkable to the yacht harbor, shops, restaurants and more! Once inside there is a spacious lobby with access to a community room, elevator, stairs and locking mailboxes! This unit is on the second floor! It lives like a 1 bedroom with large closet plus an additional room for office/craft room or even a second bedroom (it does not have a closet). Open kitchen, Living and Dining feels spacious! The electric fireplace is quick to provide a cozy feeling. And you have your own stacking in unit laundry! While your laundry in spinning, relax on your outdoor patio with a view of bocci ball court and outdoor firepit area. Or enjoy the birds and flowers! 1 person max income $96,050 2 person max income $109,750.

708 Frederick ST 205, Santa Cruz

Listed by Judy Brose, 831-234-9908 from CENTURY 21 Masters
(If provided) CoList: from

$850,000

2 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ ML82062230 MLS ⋅ Redwood Village Estates BLDG.

Light, bright 2009 Redwood Village townhome with two ensuite bedrooms and the largest private backyard on the block. Approximately 1,198 square feet in a low maintenance community just off Ocean Street, with easy access to downtown dining, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Main Beach and Cowell Beach, and Monterey Bay. The open main level features high ceilings and a dining area that flows into the living room. The kitchen is set up for everyday cooking with Formica counters, a gas range, dishwasher, microwave, and refrigerator. A half bath is downstairs. Upstairs, both bedrooms are true ensuite suites with walk-in closets, plus upper-floor laundry. Flooring is a practical mix of carpet and vinyl/linoleum. Forced-air heat, dual-flush toilets, and other energy-saving features keep it efficient. Single-car garage. What sets this home apart is the outdoor space: a large backyard left as a blank slate for a patio, garden, or weekend hangout. Ocean Street provides a straightforward route to Highway 17 for the commute over the hill to San Jose, Silicon Valley, and the Peninsulathen home to Santa Cruz restaurants, the Boardwalk, top beaches, and Monterey Bay. Same easy floor plan the market already knows: two ensuite bedrooms, 2.5 baths, bigger yard, great commute.

133 Kennan ST A, Santa Cruz

Listed by Kelly Mechem, 831-334-7707 from Bailey Properties
(If provided) CoList: Robert Bailey from Bailey Properties

$360,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ ML82061885 MLS

This 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home is located in Santa Cruz within the Live Oak Elementary school district. The residence offers approximately 480 square feet of living space, featuring central forced air heating and no cooling system. The kitchen includes an eat-in dining area, providing a practical space for meals. There is no separate family room in the layout. This property presents a straightforward and functional living environment in Santa Cruz, suited for those seeking a compact home in the Live Oak Elementary district.

2546 Capitola RD 62, Santa Cruz

Listed by Jesse E Reyes, 831-707-8067 from CENTURY 21 Masters
(If provided) CoList: from

$975,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ ML82062633 MLS ⋅ Brookside Glen HOA BLDG.

Townhome convenience w/a single-family feel! Although part of a PUD community, this spacious 1,675-sq ft home lives much more like a single-family residence. Generous interior proportions, 2-car gar, outdoor spaces & no rear neighbors, create a greater sense of space. Size, comfort, convenience & low-maintenance living in a well-maintained community. Upgraded w/hardwood floors, recessed lighting, well-equipped kitchen w/granite counters. Spacious living w/dramatic high ceilings & wide wood framed glass door leads to your private deck, overlooking the tree studded skyline & open space w/walking trails. Upstairs boasts 3 ample size bdrms, including a generous primary suite w/large walk-in closet w/organizers, dual sink vanity & tiled stall shower. Addt' bdrms have full bathroom w/shower over tub. The att garage provides convenient parking, laundry, & storage. Stoney Creek provides an abundance of guest parking, well maintained grounds & walking trails. This tree lined enclave feels like country yet is remarkably close to the heart of downtown Santa Cruz. Located near schools, parks, DeLaveaga Golf & Disc courses, + easy commute locale. Gr8 opportunity to enjoy a comfortable, low maintenance home w/the rare mix of peaceful, wooded surroundings & exceptional in-town convenience.

119 Stoney Creek RD, Santa Cruz

Listed by Sheila Feddema, 831-254-5088 from Sherman & Boone Realtors
(If provided) CoList: Sheila Giblin from Sherman & Boone Realtors

$449,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ ML82062531 MLS ⋅ Homestead Park BLDG.

Located in the heart of Live Oak sits an amazing community within walking distance to all the amenities. As you arrive you notice the end unit location and all- day sun that gleams through the double pane windows. Interior amenities include open kitchen concept with ample counter space, white cabinets, gas range, pantry, and skylight. Open floor plan, large living room, interior laundry, bathrooms with white tile. Exterior has ample parking, porch to relax plus fenced yard to garden. This is the perfect place to call home and enjoy the Santa Cruz Lifestyle.

2355 Brommer ST 38, Santa Cruz

Listed by 2 Guys in Real Estate, 831-750-9795 from Epique Realty
(If provided) CoList: from

$980,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ ML82062182 MLS

Charming coastal home just minutes from the beach, offering quintessential Santa Cruz living with an inviting front porch, beautiful curb appeal, and mature landscaping. Ideally located near the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, world-renowned surf breaks, local restaurants, neighborhood markets, and outdoor recreation, with convenient access to major commute routes to Silicon Valley. The property features a 2-bedroom, 1-bath main home plus a detached bonus flex space with a bathroom and kitchenette perfect for a home office, yoga studio, art room, or creative workspace. Outside, enjoy a private, established garden filled with avocado, apple, and lemon trees, along with a vegetable garden. Ample off-street parking provides room for multiple vehicles, RV or boat.

316 Broadway, Santa Cruz

Listed by The Madani Team, 831-234-6683 from Room Real Estate
(If provided) CoList: from

$799,000

2 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ ML82055130 MLS ⋅ Woodland Heights IV BLDG.

Welcome to 2603 Mallory Lane, a well-maintained 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offering a bright, comfortable living space in a desirable Santa Cruz location. The thoughtfully designed floor plan creates an open and inviting atmosphere throughout, with abundant natural light and a convenient half bath located on the main level. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite offers a walk-in closet and a comfortable retreat at the end of the day. A versatile second bedroom provides added flexibility, making it easy to accommodate guests or create a functional home office while maximizing the available space. Enjoy low-maintenance living with private front and back patios, offering the perfect setting for morning coffee, outdoor dining, or simply relaxing in your own outdoor retreat. Located in a private cul-de-sac, this home also features an attached one-car garage -- plus 2 resident and 1 guest parking pass for added convenience. Thoughtfully cared for and move-in ready, this home combines comfort, convenience, and practical living in an ideal Santa Cruz location. Enjoy easy access to local favorites including Shadowbrook, Firefly Coffee, Capitola Village, nearby beaches, and more. Assumable 2.75% rate loan for qualified vet!

2603 Mallory LN, Santa Cruz

Listed by Stine Jackson, 408-320-5256 from Compass
(If provided) CoList: Kiana Rodriguez Gordon from Compass

$501,900

4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ ML82060007 MLS

Opportunity to purchase a 4-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom Measure J home in Santa Cruz County. This home is subject to the County of Santa Cruz Measure J Affordable Housing Program and its eligibility, income, asset, occupancy, and resale requirements. Please review the County's Buyer Eligibility Criteria and program guidelines carefully.

Address not disclosed, Santa Cruz

Listed by Nick Torres, 831-435-9949 from Sherman & Boone Realtors
(If provided) CoList: from

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The data relating to real estate for sale on this display comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange program of the MLSListingsTM MLS system. Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than Santa Cruz Pro are marked with the Internet Data Exchange and detailed information about them includes the names of the listing brokers and listing agents.
Based on information from MLSListings MLS as of . All data, including all measurements and calculations of area, is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by broker or MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.