East Santa Cruz Homes under $1.5 million

Welcome to East Santa Cruz, a vibrant neighborhood nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz County, California. This charming area is known for its stunning natural beauty, friendly community atmosphere, and a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that make it an ideal place to call home. With its close proximity to the picturesque coastline and lush redwood forests, East Santa Cruz offers residents a unique blend of outdoor adventures and urban conveniences.

One of the standout features of this neighborhood is the diverse range of homes available, particularly for those seeking properties under $1.5 million. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bungalow, a modern townhouse, or a spacious family home, East Santa Cruz has something to suit every taste and lifestyle. Many of these homes boast beautiful gardens, inviting decks, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, allowing you to enjoy the mild California climate to its fullest.

Living in East Santa Cruz means you’re never far from local attractions. Spend your weekends exploring the vibrant downtown area, with its eclectic shops, delicious eateries, and lively art scene. For nature lovers, the nearby parks and beaches provide endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and soaking up the sun. With excellent schools and a strong sense of community, East Santa Cruz is perfect for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

Come discover the charm and appeal of East Santa Cruz, where your dream home awaits!

Newest East Santa Cruz Homes under $1.5 million

$650,000

2 Beds ⋅ 28 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

$1,250,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ ML82063347 MLS

The spacious floor plan provides plenty of room for everyday living and entertaining, with well-proportioned living spaces and a natural connection to the outdoors. Large windows bring in abundant natural light, while the expansive yard offers room to garden, play, entertain, or simply enjoy the privacy of your own outdoor space. The home has seen thoughtful updates while retaining much of the architectural simplicity and character that make this era of design so appealing. For those looking to put their own stamp on a home, there is also ample opportunity to further update and personalize the spaces to reflect your own style and vision. The location adds another layer of appeal. Tucked into a Santa Cruz neighborhood, the home offers easy access to Highways 1 and 17, making it simple to get to the coast, downtown, surrounding communities, and beyond. Nearby hiking trails and open space invite you outdoors, while local recreational amenities, including a frisbee golf course, are close at hand.

131 Woodcrest PL, Santa Cruz

Listed by Christy Whiting Wohlert, 831-218-5911 from David Lyng Real Estate
(If provided) CoList: from

$1,050,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ ML82063096 MLS ⋅ Isbel Court BLDG.

Rarely available in Carbonera Estates, this spacious tri-level townhome is peacefully positioned near the end of quiet Isbel Court, feeling tucked away from it all while keeping the best of Santa Cruz close at hand. Surrounded by greenery, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers approximately 1,774 SF of light-filled living, outdoor decks and a wonderful connection to nature. Vaulted ceilings, abundant windows and greenbelt views create an airy, open feel, while the decks invite you outside to relax, entertain and enjoy the setting. The tri-level floor plan provides wonderful separation of space. The generous primary suite enjoys its own levela private retreat with a walk-in closet and deck. Two additional bedrooms offer flexibility for guests or a home office. An attached one-car garage, guest parking and the quiet cul-de-sac setting add everyday convenience. Carbonera Estates offers approximately 16 acres of park-like grounds with mature landscaping, gardens and a pond, all just minutes from the heart of Santa Cruz, beaches, dining, shopping, golf and commuter routes. Spacious, peaceful and connected to both nature and town, this is a special opportunity to enjoy the Santa Cruz lifestyle.

813 Isbel CT, Santa Cruz

Listed by MaryBeth McLaughlin, 831-252-4085 from Room Real Estate
(If provided) CoList: Magdiel Fajardo from Room Real Estate

$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

$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

$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

$1,098,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ ML82061904 MLS

At 229 Poplar, you get the things that matter: a charming single-level home, a generous backyard, flexible bonus space, and a location that keeps the best parts of Santa Cruz nearby. The two-bedroom, one-bathroom home is ready to move right in and enjoy. Out back, theres ample room for dinner with friends, a garden, kids at play, or simply the luxury of having your own private outdoor space. The bonus room adds even more flexibility for an office, studio, guest room, or whatever fits your life. And in Midtown, the location is one of the best parts. Arana Gulch, Seabright, the harbor, beaches, neighborhood restaurants, and everyday essentials are all within easy reach. For anyone who has been waiting for the opportunity to own a little piece of Santa Cruz, 229 Poplar might be exactly the place to start.

229 Poplar AVE, Santa Cruz

Listed by Strock Team, 831-688-9800 from eXp Realty of California Inc
(If provided) CoList: Ashley Sidey from eXp Realty of California Inc

$1,198,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ ML82060460 MLS

Discover a rare Santa Cruz opportunity offering approximately 1,803 sq ft of beautifully remodeled living space across two separate dwellings: a turnkey 2-bedroom, 1-bath main home plus a detached 1-bedroom, 1-bath ADU, all on a generous lot in the desirable Banana Belt neighborhood. The 1,281 sq ft main residence is move-in ready, featuring LVP flooring, a stylishly remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, updated cabinetry and tile backsplash, plus a striking fireplace feature. Thoughtful upgrades continue throughout with modern fixtures, new window blinds, and a beautifully tiled shower. The detached ADU has been fully remodeled with a fresh, modern aesthetic and quality finishes, creating a private and versatile second dwelling. Perfect for extended household living, guests, a home office, or rental income, the ADU adds exceptional flexibility and value. Outside, enjoy an expansive backyard with room for gardens, entertaining, play space, or a private retreat. Ample parking adds convenience. With two beautifully updated dwellings and approximately 1,803 sq ft of combined permitted living space, this is a rare opportunity for turnkey living with the flexibility of a separate ADU in one of Santa Cruz's desirable neighborhoods.

414 Roxas ST, Santa Cruz

Listed by Shawndy Linquist, 831-440-6733 from Compass
(If provided) CoList: Kimberly Ward from Compass

$1,159,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ ML82060616 MLS

Welcome to 129 May Ave, a charming Santa Cruz cottage-style home filled with warmth, character, and versatility. This inviting property offers 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms in the main home, plus a detached bonus room off the one-car garage, ideal for a home office, guest space, creative studio, or additional bedroom. Inside, you'll find natural wood flooring, double-pane windows throughout, and a bright, updated kitchen with granite countertops and a cozy, functional layout that blends classic charm with everyday comfort. Included in the sale are the refrigerator, gas stove, microwave, dishwasher, washer, and dryer, making this home move-in ready. A separate utility room provides added convenience, extra storage, and a full bathroom. Outside, enjoy a clean and well-maintained backyard with a variety of mature trees and fruit trees, creating a peaceful setting for relaxing, gardening, or entertaining. A hot tub adds to the appeal and makes the outdoor space feel like a private retreat. The property also includes a solar lease for the buyer to assume. Full of character, flexible living options, and thoughtful features, and located just a short walk to Downtown Santa Cruz, this special home offers comfort, charm, and an ideal coastal lifestyle.

129 May AVE, Santa Cruz

Listed by Eddie Guajardo, 831-206-2335 from eXp Realty of California Inc
(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.