Columbus, OH vs Santa Ana, CA: 83 vs 163

$1,224/mo ↓ 38%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 61%

$65,327/yr ↓ 26%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↑ 35%

$234,500 ↓ 64%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 181%

$1,243/mo ↓ 37%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 58%

906,480

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbus, OH and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $751/month cheaper in Columbus, saving renters about $9,012/year.

Median household income is $23,027/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbus is $234,500 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Columbus slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbus vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Columbus or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbus is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbus and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Columbus is $1,224/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $751/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbus or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $65,327 in Columbus and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $23,027/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and California?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Columbus or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Columbus has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,224/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: Columbus, OH vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Columbus

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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