Augusta, GA vs Santa Maria, CA: 67 vs 137

$1,087/mo ↓ 41%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 69%

$53,134/yr ↓ 37%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 59%

$162,900 ↓ 66%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 194%

$1,053/mo ↓ 41%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 70%

201,504

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Augusta, GA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $755/month cheaper in Augusta, saving renters about $9,060/year.

Median household income is $31,483/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Augusta is $162,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Augusta vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Augusta or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Augusta is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Augusta and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Augusta is $1,087/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $755/month.

Which city has higher income, Augusta or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $53,134 in Augusta and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $31,483/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 Augusta or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Augusta has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,087/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: Augusta, GA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Augusta

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons