Athens, GA vs Santa Maria, CA: 83 vs 137

$1,162/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 59%

$51,655/yr ↓ 39%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 64%

$271,800 ↓ 43%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 76%

$1,163/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 54%

126,987

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Athens, GA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $680/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $8,160/year.

Median household income is $32,962/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Athens is $271,800 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Georgia has a lower income tax rate, making Athens slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Athens vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Athens or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Athens and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Athens is $1,162/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $680/month.

Which city has higher income, Athens or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $51,655 in Athens and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $32,962/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and California?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Athens or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Athens has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,162/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: Athens, GA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Athens

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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