Santa Cruz County Real Estate and Livability Trends
Real estate trends in Santa Cruz County, Arizona show a steady uptick in taxable income and median home values, underscoring a robust yet nuanced economic landscape. Median home values rose from $137,000 in 2015 to $196,700 in 2022, creating potential investment opportunities especially when compared to the overall state market's pace. Increasing property taxes, from $2,750.00 in 2012 to over... Read more
Santa Cruz County Market Trends
Santa Cruz County, Arizona's median home values have steadily risen from $137,000 in 2015 to $196,700 in 2022, although the county's growth lags behind the state’s significant surge. This trend highlights potential affordability and investment opportunities compared to the broader state market. The fluctuations in residential energy tax credits, peaking at $2,350.00 in 2018 and $2,106.25 in... Read more
Median Value of Occupied Housing Units in Santa Cruz County, Arizona Over the Last 8 Years
Over the past eight years, the median home values in Santa Cruz County, Arizona have shown a steady increase from $137,000 in 2015 to $196,700 in 2022. This trend is somewhat aligned with the national increase, which went from $125,500 to $179,400 in the same period. However, the county’s growth, while apparent, lags compared to the state of Arizona, which surged from $167,500 to $321,400. This indicates Santa Cruz County might present more affordable investment opportunities compared to the broader state market, making it appealing for potential buyers looking for value.
Residential Energy Tax Credit Per Tax Return in Santa Cruz County, AZ Over the Last 9 Years
Santa Cruz County, Arizona has seen significant fluctuations in residential energy tax credits per tax return over the past nine years, peaking in 2018 at $2,350.00 and again in 2021 at $2,106.25. This trend indicates a growing awareness and investment in energy efficiency among residents, making it an attractive destination for eco-conscious investors and homeowners. The variability also highlights the potential for future financial benefits through energy-saving initiatives.
Average Real Estate Taxes Per Tax Return in Santa Cruz County, AZ Over the Last 10 Years
Santa Cruz County, Arizona has experienced notable growth in average real estate taxes per tax return over the last decade. Starting around $2,750.00 in 2012, the average taxes saw a steady climb, peaking significantly between 2018 and 2021, with valuations surpassing $4,500.00 by 2020. This upward trend suggests an increasing property value in the area, potentially driven by enhanced local amenities or growing demand. For investors and potential homeowners, these figures might signal both opportunities for long-term investment returns and the need to factor in higher tax expenditures.
Percentage of Farm Returns in Santa Cruz County, AZ Over the Last 10 Years
The percentage of farm tax returns in Santa Cruz County, Arizona, has seen slight fluctuations over the last decade, peaking at roughly 0.82% in 2014 and dropping to about 0.49% in 2020. These farm returns provide essential insights into the agricultural economy of the area, reflecting how many residents derive their income from farming. For those interested in investing, moving to, or building property in Santa Cruz County, such trends might hint at a modest but resilient agricultural activity, despite the slight downward trend in recent years.
Number of Mortgages by Occupancy Type in Santa Cruz County, AZ Over the Last 5 Years in Santa Cruz County
Santa Cruz County, Arizona has witnessed notable fluctuations in the number of mortgages tied to principal residences, with a high point in 2021 reaching over 3,300, followed by a drop to roughly 2,082 in 2022. Investment properties and second residences accounted for much smaller, though relatively stable portions of the market. Such trends are crucial for investors, as shifts in occupancy type often signal changing economic conditions or demographic shifts, impacting demand and property values. Appraisers and insurance agents also benefit from understanding these dynamics as they influence risk assessment and pricing strategies. For real estate agents and builders, recognizing the prime focus on principal residences could guide marketing and development plans to better align with market demands.
Economic Outlook
Santa Cruz County, Arizona, has experienced a steady rise in average taxable income per tax return over the past nine years, jumping from $39,589.44 in 2013 to $53,293.82 in 2021. Meanwhile, state and local income taxes have seen notable fluctuations, peaking at $8,938.89 in 2021. Average total tax liability has also varied, landing at $7,694.38 in 2021, up from $6,954.13 in 2012. These trends suggest a growing but complex local economy, making it crucial for investors and potential homeowners... Read more
Average Taxable Income per Tax Return in Santa Cruz County, AZ over the last 9 years
Santa Cruz County, AZ, has seen a steady increase in average taxable income per tax return over the past nine years. Back in 2013, the average taxable income was $39,589.44 and this figure has risen incrementally, reaching $53,293.82 by 2021. The most notable jumps were in 2017 and 2021, which saw average incomes leap to $45,632.81 and $53,293.82 respectively. This consistent upward trend highlights a growing economy and can be an encouraging sign for potential investors, movers, and property developers considering the area.
Average State and Local Income Taxes Per Tax Return in Santa Cruz County, AZ Over the Last 10 Years
Santa Cruz County, AZ has seen significant fluctuations in average state and local income taxes per tax return, with a notable upward trend in recent years. From $4,614.84 in 2012, the figure peaked dramatically at $8,938.89 in 2021. This escalating tax burden reflects underlying economic changes and may impact cost of living considerations for current and prospective residents.
Average Total Tax Liability Per Tax Return in Santa Cruz County, AZ Over the Last 10 Years
Santa Cruz County, Arizona has seen a fluctuating trend in average total tax liability per tax return over the last decade. While starting at $6,954.13 in 2012, the tax liability dipped to $6,248.21 in 2014 and saw a notable increase to $7,694.38 by 2021. For investors and potential homeowners, this indicates both a growing economy and shifting financial dynamics, suggesting that careful fiscal planning and a thorough understanding of local economic conditions are crucial for making informed investment decisions in the area.
Cost of Living in Santa Cruz County
| Family Size | Housing | Food | Heath Care | Child Care | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 adults 4 children | $1,240 | $1,206 | $1,659 | $1,183 | $868 |
| 1 adult 4 children | $1,240 | $985 | $1,285 | $1,183 | $976 |
| 2 adults 3 children | $1,240 | $986 | $1,431 | $1,183 | $701 |
| 1 adult 3 children | $1,240 | $805 | $1,057 | $1,183 | $765 |
| 2 adults 2 children | $905 | $807 | $1,203 | $1,025 | $604 |
| 1 adult 2 children | $905 | $603 | $829 | $1,025 | $560 |
| 2 adults 1 child | $905 | $638 | $976 | $512 | $583 |
| 1 adult 1 child | $905 | $412 | $602 | $512 | $505 |
| 2 adults | $688 | $512 | $748 | $0 | $500 |
| 1 adult | $605 | $279 | $374 | $0 | $454 |
Safety trends & Data
Property crime in Santa Cruz County, Arizona, has experienced notable shifts over the past four years. Larceny-theft peaked at 278 incidents in 2019 but generally decreased to 209 by 2022. Despite some fluctuation in burglary incidents, motor vehicle theft notably increased from 3 cases in 2018 to 32 in 2022. Intriguingly, vandalism cases plummeted from 35 in 2018 to just 1 by 2022. These varied trends may influence homebuyers, real estate investors, and insurance... Read more
Property Crime Trends in Santa Cruz County, AZ Over the Last 4 Years
Property crime in Santa Cruz County, Arizona shows mixed trends over the last four years. Larceny-theft remains the most frequent crime, peaking in 2019 at 278 incidents but showing a general decrease to 209 incidents by 2022. Burglary incidents fluctuated slightly, while motor vehicle theft saw a significant increase from 3 in 2018 to 32 in 2022. Fraud incidents were relatively stable, but vandalism cases showed a dramatic drop from 35 in 2018 to just 1 in 2022. These trends suggest varying levels of risk depending on the type of property crime, important for prospective homebuyers, real estate investors, and businesses considering insurance.
Demographics
Santa Cruz County, Arizona, shows a near-even split in its adult population between males and females, suggesting a balanced demographic. Educational attainment highlights some variation, with a noticeable portion not achieving a high school diploma while others have moved up to higher education levels such as bachelor's and graduate degrees. Age distribution skews slightly older, with many residents falling into the 55 to 64-year age range. The racial makeup primarily consists of White... Read more
Race Distribution in Santa Cruz County, Arizona (2022)
Educational Attainment in Santa Cruz County, Arizona (2022)
Age Distribution in Santa Cruz County, Arizona
Citizen Population in Santa Cruz County, Arizona (2022)
Political Trends & Data
Santa Cruz County, Arizona, leans heavily Democratic, with approximately 67% of the votes in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election going to the party. Conversely, the Republican Party garnered about 32%, highlighting a substantial partisan divide. Minor parties such as the Libertarians barely made a dent, and the absence of votes for the Green Party and "Other" categories suggests these groups have minimal influence or presence in the area. This voting pattern might underscore deeper demographic... Read more
Percentage of Votes in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election by Party
Santa Cruz County, Arizona, demonstrates a significant lean toward the Democratic Party, capturing possibly around 67% of the vote in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election. This stands in contrast to the Republican Party, which garnered an estimated 32%. Minor parties like the Libertarian Party made up only a small fraction of the vote, suggesting limited influence. The zero percentage attributed to the Green Party and "Other" category might indicate a lack of organizational presence or support within the county. This pattern could reflect broader demographic or sociopolitical trends prevalent in the region.
31.67% of voters voted for the Republican party in the 2020 Presidential Election
67.18% of voters voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential Election
1.15% of voters voted for the Livertarian party in the 2020 Presidential Election
School Data
Santa Cruz County, Arizona, has experienced fluctuating student-to-teacher ratios over the past decade, with a notable peak at 26 students per teacher in 2023 and a dip to around 11 in 2019. This variability could influence decisions for those prioritizing education quality in their real estate investments. While the national average stands at 14 students per teacher, Santa Cruz County's ratios may suggest an evolving educational landscape that merits close attention for investors, appraisers,... Read more
Student-to-teacher ratio in Santa Cruz County, Arizona over the last 10 years
Santa Cruz County, Arizona, has seen fluctuating student-to-teacher ratios over the past decade, with notable variations that might influence decisions for those invested in education or real estate. While the ratio peaked at 26 students per teacher in 2023, it dipped significantly to around 11 in 2019. These changes, particularly the recent spike, could impact the attractiveness of the area for families prioritizing education quality, as higher ratios often signal larger class sizes and potential strain on teaching resources. With the current national average being 14 students per teacher, Santa Cruz County's ratios suggest a potentially evolving educational landscape worth monitoring for investors, appraisers, and residents alike.
