Corona, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 173 vs 137

$2,136/mo ↑ 16%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 14%

$106,438/yr ↑ 26%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 21%

$656,500 ↑ 37%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 27%

$2,280/mo ↑ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 22%

158,839

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Corona, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 173 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $294/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $3,528/year.

Median household income is $21,821/year higher in Corona. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Corona is $656,500 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Corona vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Corona 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 173 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Corona and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Corona is $2,136/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $294/month.

Which city has higher income, Corona or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $106,438 in Corona and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $21,821/year higher in Corona.

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 Corona or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Corona has a cost index of 173 with median rent of $2,136/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: Corona, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Corona

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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