Santa Cruz; Aptos vs Soquel? (Watsonville: houses, neighborhoods, purchase)

[tylerjames93]

Hi, about to purchase a home in one of the areas. curious on the major differences. I will be purchasing very close to the water, I would like to raise a family here, but still be close to night life, shopping, restraunts etc. thanks all input considered.

[rimmerama]

They're both so close to each other that in terms of restaurants, shopping, etc, it doesn't really matter. Aptos actually touches the coast, so in terms of living very close to the water, that'd be your choice... Not that any houses very close to the water are cheap.

The neighborhood between Seacliff and New Brighton Parks might be affordable, and there's a stairway down to the beach.

Soquel has a very modest "downtown" with a few restaurants, Aptos has its village, both about the same size, when all is said and done. The major difference for me would be that Soquel's placement within the county makes it more crowded, more traffic. Although, these days, during the busy hours, there are few places in mid county that aren't congested.

[jaijai]

If you're choosing between Aptos and Soquel it just comes down to what areas / neighborhoods you like and where you can find the best dwelling for you and your family.
"Downtown" Soquel gets a bit congested during commuter times but most of it is Soquel Drive traffic which runs through Aptos as well.
It's a non-issue basically.
Both will allow you similar / equal access to shopping, nightlife, restaurants, etc..
Although it depends on where you are in either town.
Good luck affording a home on the coast in Santa Cruz county.
You might want to wait 'till the ridiculous bubble bursts which it inevitably will.
When it will burst is a mystery ... your kids may be grown and gone by the time it happens but it will happen.

[tylerjames93]

thanks alot everyone.

[Jess72]

Out of the three my first choice would be Aptos. As a child I lived in Santa Cruz, Soquel and Watsonville. If I had the money Aptos would be the one.