Dayton, OH vs Santa Maria, CA: 50 vs 137

$866/mo ↓ 53%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 113%

$43,454/yr ↓ 49%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 95%

$93,200 ↓ 81%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 413%

$833/mo ↓ 53%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 115%

136,741

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Dayton, OH and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 50 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $976/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $11,712/year.

Median household income is $41,163/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Dayton is $93,200 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Dayton vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Dayton or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Dayton and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Dayton is $866/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $976/month.

Which city has higher income, Dayton or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $43,454 in Dayton and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $41,163/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Dayton or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Dayton has a cost index of 50 with median rent of $866/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: Dayton, OH vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Dayton

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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