Boston, MA vs Santa Maria, CA: 176 vs 137

$2,093/mo ↑ 14%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 12%

$94,755/yr ↑ 12%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 11%

$710,400 ↑ 49%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 33%

$2,176/mo ↑ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 18%

663,972

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boston, MA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 176 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $251/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $3,012/year.

Median household income is $10,138/year higher in Boston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boston is $710,400 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Boston 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 176 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boston and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Boston is $2,093/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $251/month.

Which city has higher income, Boston or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $94,755 in Boston and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $10,138/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 Maria?

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

Boston

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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