Arlington, TX vs Santa Ana, CA: 95 vs 163

$1,389/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 42%

$73,519/yr ↓ 17%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↑ 20%

$276,400 ↓ 58%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 138%

$1,420/mo ↓ 28%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 38%

394,769

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, TX and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 95 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $586/month cheaper in Arlington, saving renters about $7,032/year.

Median household income is $14,835/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $276,400 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Arlington residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Arlington or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Arlington is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Arlington and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Arlington is $1,389/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $586/month.

Which city has higher income, Arlington or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $73,519 in Arlington and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $14,835/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Arlington or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 95 with median rent of $1,389/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: Arlington, TX vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Arlington

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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