Cary, NC vs Santa Maria, CA: 135 vs 137

$1,621/mo ↓ 12%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 14%

$129,399/yr ↑ 53%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 35%

$525,200 ↑ 10%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 9%

$1,744/mo ↓ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 3%

176,686

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Cary, NC and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 135 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $221/month cheaper in Cary, saving renters about $2,652/year.

Median household income is $44,782/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Cary is $525,200 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Cary slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cary vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Cary or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Cary is cheaper to live in with an index of 135 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Cary and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Cary is $1,621/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $221/month.

Which city has higher income, Cary or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $129,399 in Cary and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $44,782/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and California?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Cary or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Cary has a cost index of 135 with median rent of $1,621/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: Cary, NC vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Cary

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons