Carlsbad, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 253 vs 137

$2,678/mo ↑ 45%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 31%

$139,326/yr ↑ 65%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 39%

$1,156,900 ↑ 142%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 59%

$2,801/mo ↑ 57%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 36%

114,500

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Carlsbad, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 253 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $836/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $10,032/year.

Median household income is $54,709/year higher in Carlsbad. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Carlsbad is $1,156,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Carlsbad vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Carlsbad 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 253 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Carlsbad and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Carlsbad is $2,678/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $836/month.

Which city has higher income, Carlsbad or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $139,326 in Carlsbad and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $54,709/year higher in Carlsbad.

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 Carlsbad or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Carlsbad has a cost index of 253 with median rent of $2,678/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: Carlsbad, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Carlsbad

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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