Discover the Santa Cruz Mountains

Living in the Santa Cruz Mountains

The Santa Cruz Mountains (SCM) and San Lorenzo Valley (SLV) offer a serene escape from the urban hustle of nearby Santa Cruz and San Jose. This picturesque region encompasses charming communities such as Felton, Mt. Hermon, Lompico, Zayante, Boulder Creek, Ben Lomond, and Bonny Doon. Renowned for its towering redwood forests, temperate climate, and diverse outdoor activities, the SCM and SLV provide a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.

Why Choose the Santa Cruz Mountains and San Lorenzo Valley?

Proximity to Silicon Valley: Located just a short drive from major tech hubs, residents can enjoy a tranquil lifestyle while remaining connected to urban centers.

Outdoor Recreation: The area boasts numerous parks and natural reserves, offering hiking, mountain biking, and opportunities to explore the San Lorenzo River's swimming holes.

Eclectic Real Estate: From mid-century modern homes to quaint riverfront cottages and expansive estates, the region's diverse architecture caters to various preferences. In 2022, 368 homes sold in this area, with single-family homes averaging $1 million and townhomes/condos averaging $550,000.

Local Santa Cruz Mountain Highlights

Santa Cruz Mountains Dining:

  • Cowboy Bar & Grill (Felton): A Western-style restaurant serving BBQ and American fare in a rustic setting.
  • Sushi San (Felton): Offers fresh and high-quality sushi in a welcoming environment.
  • Aroma: In the heart of Ben Lomond, innovative cuisine crafted with care, using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. 

Where to Drink in the Santa Cruz Mountains:

Where to enjoy Coffee in the Santa Cruz Mountains:

  • White Raven Coffeehouse (Felton): A quaint spot offering delicious coffee drinks and a comfortable atmosphere for work or relaxation.
  • The Grove (Felton): A bakery and café providing a variety of pastries, breads, and coffee options in a rustic setting.
  • Mountain Roasting Coffee Company (Boulder Creek): Known for its wide selection of coffee blends and beans, perfect for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.

Things to do in the Santa Cruz Mountains:

Beyond dining and drinking, the SCM and SLV offer a wealth of activities:

Current Market Trends in the Santa Cruz Mountains

🏡 Felton, CA

 

Median Sale Price: Approximately $875,000 in May 2025, reflecting a 31.4% decrease year-over-year.

 

Median Listing Price: Around $895,000 in May 2025, indicating a 12% year-over-year increase.

 

Market Dynamics: Despite the significant drop in median sale prices, Felton remains a desirable location for buyers seeking proximity to nature and the Santa Cruz Mountains.

 

🌲 Ben Lomond, CA

 

Median Sale Price: Approximately $962,000 in May 2025, down 15.6% from the previous year.

 

Median Listing Price: Around $912,900 in May 2025, reflecting a 14.3% decrease year-over-year.

 

Market Characteristics: Ben Lomond offers a blend of affordability and scenic beauty, attracting buyers looking for a peaceful mountain lifestyle.


🌿 Lompico/Zayante, CA

 

Median Sale Price: Approximately $588,000 in May 2025, marking a 64.3% increase compared to the previous year.

 

Median Listing Price: Around $649,000 in June 2025.

 

Market Characteristics: The Lompico/Zayante area has seen significant appreciation, likely due to increased demand for rural properties with larger lots and natural surroundings.

 

🌄 Boulder Creek, CA

 

Median Sale Price: Approximately $590,000 in May 2025, reflecting a 29.8% decrease year-over-year.

 

Median Listing Price: Around $775,000 in May 2025, indicating a 13.1% year-over-year increase.

 

Market Dynamics: Boulder Creek continues to attract buyers seeking affordable homes amidst the redwoods, though the market has experienced some fluctuations.

 

🔍 Market Insights

 

Price Adjustments: Felton, Ben Lomond, and Boulder Creek are experiencing price corrections, likely due to higher mortgage rates and broader economic factors.

 

Appreciation in Lompico/Zayante: The significant increase in median sale prices in Lompico/Zayante suggests heightened demand for properties in this area.

 

Seller's Market Conditions: Despite price adjustments, low inventory levels contribute to seller-favorable conditions across these regions.

 

Investment Considerations: Potential buyers and investors should be aware of the evolving market dynamics and consider long-term value appreciation.