Arvada, CO vs Santa Maria, CA: 152 vs 137

$1,802/mo ↓ 2%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 2%

$113,396/yr ↑ 34%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 25%

$600,800 ↑ 26%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 20%

$1,948/mo ↑ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 8%

122,835

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arvada, CO and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 152 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $28,779/year higher in Arvada. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arvada is $600,800 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Arvada slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arvada vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Arvada 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 152 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Arvada and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Arvada is $1,802/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $40/month.

Which city has higher income, Arvada or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $113,396 in Arvada and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $28,779/year higher in Arvada.

How do taxes compare between Colorado and California?

Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Arvada or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Arvada has a cost index of 152 with median rent of $1,802/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: Arvada, CO vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Arvada

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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