Anaheim, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 182 vs 137

$2,082/mo ↑ 13%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 12%

$90,583/yr ↑ 7%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 7%

$771,700 ↑ 61%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 38%

$2,165/mo ↑ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 17%

344,553

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Anaheim, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 182 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $240/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $2,880/year.

Median household income is $5,966/year higher in Anaheim. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Anaheim is $771,700 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Anaheim vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Anaheim or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Maria is cheaper to live in with an index of 137 compared to 182 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Anaheim and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Anaheim is $2,082/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $240/month.

Which city has higher income, Anaheim or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $90,583 in Anaheim and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $5,966/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 Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Anaheim has a cost index of 182 with median rent of $2,082/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Anaheim

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons