Baltimore, MD vs Santa Ana, CA: 84 vs 163

$1,290/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 53%

$59,623/yr ↓ 33%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↑ 48%

$219,300 ↓ 67%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 200%

$1,333/mo ↓ 32%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 47%

577,193

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $685/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $8,220/year.

Median household income is $28,731/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

Maryland has a lower income tax rate, making Baltimore slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Baltimore or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $685/month.

Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $28,731/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between Maryland and California?

Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Baltimore or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/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: Baltimore, MD vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Baltimore

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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