Boston, MA vs Santa Ana, CA: 176 vs 163

$2,093/mo ↑ 6%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↓ 6%

$94,755/yr ↑ 7%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↓ 7%

$710,400 ↑ 8%

Home Value

$657,800 ↓ 7%

$2,176/mo ↑ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↓ 10%

663,972

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boston, MA and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 176 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $118/month cheaper in Santa Ana, saving renters about $1,416/year.

Median household income is $6,401/year higher in Boston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boston is $710,400 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

Massachusetts has a lower income tax rate, making Boston slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Boston or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 176 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boston and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Boston is $2,093/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $118/month.

Which city has higher income, Boston or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $94,755 in Boston and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $6,401/year higher in Boston.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and California?

Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Boston or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Boston has a cost index of 176 with median rent of $2,093/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: Boston, MA vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Boston

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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