Anaheim, CA vs Santa Ana, CA: 182 vs 163

$2,082/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↓ 5%

$90,583/yr ↑ 3%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↓ 2%

$771,700 ↑ 17%

Home Value

$657,800 ↓ 15%

$2,165/mo ↑ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↓ 9%

344,553

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Anaheim, CA and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 182 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $107/month cheaper in Santa Ana, saving renters about $1,284/year.

Median household income is $2,229/year higher in Anaheim. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Anaheim is $771,700 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Anaheim vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Anaheim or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 182 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Anaheim and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Anaheim is $2,082/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $107/month.

Which city has higher income, Anaheim or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $90,583 in Anaheim and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $2,229/year higher in Anaheim.

How do taxes compare between California and California?

Both cities are in California and share the same state tax rates: 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Anaheim or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Anaheim has a cost index of 182 with median rent of $2,082/mo, while Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with rent of $1,975/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Anaheim, CA vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Anaheim

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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