Berkeley, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 251 vs 137

$2,127/mo ↑ 15%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 13%

$108,558/yr ↑ 28%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 22%

$1,351,100 ↑ 183%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 65%

$2,340/mo ↑ 31%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 24%

120,223

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Berkeley, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 251 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $285/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $3,420/year.

Median household income is $23,941/year higher in Berkeley. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Berkeley is $1,351,100 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Berkeley vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Berkeley 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 251 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Berkeley and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Berkeley is $2,127/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $285/month.

Which city has higher income, Berkeley or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $108,558 in Berkeley and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $23,941/year higher in Berkeley.

How do taxes compare between California and California?

Both cities are in California and share the same state tax rates: 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Berkeley or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Berkeley has a cost index of 251 with median rent of $2,127/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: Berkeley, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Berkeley

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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