The Ultimate Guide to Architectural Styles in Santa Cruz County (And Where to Find Them)
Santa Cruz County is basically a Pinterest board of home styles — coastal cuties, redwood retreats, mountain hideaways, and everything in between. If you can dream it, there’s probably a neighborhood here quietly rocking that exact vibe.
But actually finding those styles (without spending your entire weekend driving from Davenport to Watsonville with snacks rolling around your cupholders)? Yeah… that’s another story.
That’s where I come in. 💛
Consider this your no-stress guide to the most popular architectural styles in Santa Cruz County — and exactly where they love to hide.
TUDOR REVIVAL
FOR THE STORYBOOK LOVERS
What it looks like: Steeply pitched roofs, charming brick or stone accents, arched doorways, and a chimney big enough to make you believe Santa might actually fit down it.
Where to find it:
Prospect Heights (Santa Cruz) – Scattered among the tree-lined streets with big, established lots.
Aptos Village & Rio Del Mar Flats (Aptos) – A few hidden gems with that cottage-meets-fairytale vibe.
Perfect for: Buyers who love history, charm, and curb appeal that stops people mid-dog-walk.
CRAFTSMAN BUNGALOWS
FOR THE COZY & CHARACTER-OBSESSED
What it looks like: Wide, welcoming front porches, low-pitched roofs, exposed rafters, and allll the original woodwork that makes your heart flutter.
Where to find it:
The Lower Westside (Santa Cruz) – Think walkable streets, shady porches, and that quintessential SC character.
Seabright (Santa Cruz) – Classic Craftsman bungalows near the coast with so much charm it almost hurts.
Perfect for: People who want a home with soul (and maybe a front porch swing for their morning Verve latte).
MID-CENTURY MODERN
FOR THE MINIMALISTS & DESIGN LOVERS
What it looks like: Clean lines, flat or gently sloped roofs, big windows, open floor plans, and that effortless “Eichler-adjacent” feel.
Where to find it:
Pasatiempo (Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley border) – Iconic mid-century architecture around the golf course.
Scotts Valley – Skypark & older established pockets – A mix of mid-century ranches with great bones and light.
Perfect for: Buyers who love open spaces, natural light, and homes that could easily land in an Architectural Digest mood board.
MODERN FARMHOUSE
FOR THE JOANNA GAINES FANS
What it looks like: White board-and-batten siding, black windows, warm woods, clean rustic touches, and interiors built for cozy-but-chic living.
Where to find it:
Soquel Hills – Larger lots with newly built or remodeled modern farmhouses tucked among orchards and oaks.
Corralitos & Day Valley (Aptos) – Quiet, rural charm meets stylish, modern upgrades.
Perfect for: Those who want classic country comfort with a bright, modern twist.
CONTEMPORARY & MODERN
FOR THE TRENDSETTERS
What it looks like: Asymmetrical rooflines, bold materials, massive windows framing ocean or forest views, and clean, dramatic geometry.
Where to find it:
West Cliff Drive (Santa Cruz) – Architectural showstoppers overlooking the ocean.
Bonny Doon & Santa Cruz Mountains (Felton, Ben Lomond, Boulder Creek) – Stunning contemporary builds tucked in the redwoods, often fully custom.
Perfect for: Buyers who love cutting-edge design and homes that make a statement from the moment you pull up.
Which home style fits you?
Now that you know where to find your aesthetic, it’s time to turn that Pinterest board into your reality. 😉
✨ Grab a copy of my Santa Cruz Neighborhood Guide here to start exploring these areas like a local.
Ready to find your dream home (or just want to daydream about it over coffee)?
Click here to get in contact — I can’t wait to help you find a home you love.