The environment is mostly rural, yet close enough to share 40 miles of pristine shoreline in Santa Cruz County or to provide an easy commute to work on Highway 17. Many Scotts Valley residents are second generation dwellers, while others come from Santa Cruz and other larger communities to enjoy good weather, access to major employment centers and a small town atmosphere. Many beautiful homes dot the foothills and backroads of Scotts Valley. While there are very few apartment buildings, modern condominium complexes are available, as well as undeveloped land parcels. Currently, there are approximately 2,700 SFR within the city limits.
Many neighborhoods are rural and most homes are custom built.
Although housing prices in Scotts Valley have increased, they are still 10 to 15 percent lower than in neighboring Santa Clara or San Mateo Counties. With legal restrictions on residential growth, there is a constant, high demand for housing in the area. About 150 new homes are approved for future construction. Approximately 466 proposed new homes are now in the review process. Scotts Valley has less than 10 apartment buildings, but there are several large condominium projects.