Dallas, TX vs Santa Ana, CA: 97 vs 163

$1,403/mo ↓ 29%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 41%

$67,760/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↑ 30%

$295,300 ↓ 55%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 123%

$1,409/mo ↓ 28%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 39%

1,299,553

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Dallas, TX and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 97 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $572/month cheaper in Dallas, saving renters about $6,864/year.

Median household income is $20,594/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Dallas is $295,300 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Dallas residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dallas vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Dallas or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dallas is cheaper to live in with an index of 97 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Dallas and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Dallas is $1,403/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $572/month.

Which city has higher income, Dallas or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $67,760 in Dallas and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $20,594/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Dallas or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Dallas has a cost index of 97 with median rent of $1,403/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: Dallas, TX vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Dallas

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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