That’s fair. Someone posted a top phd schools. They’re on that as well.
Their rep in physics and physics / astronomy is well known as is CU Boulder but much more expensive. I put the report because most will think - UC trumps all or is cheaper than all and in certain disciplines it’s a flawed argument. Of course there are many aspects of physics so perhaps that should be looked at too to ensure the chosen school has the right aspects of curriculum.
UCSC is well thought of as well.