Denton, TX vs Santa Maria, CA: 100 vs 137

$1,344/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 37%

$73,719/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 15%

$325,700 ↓ 32%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 47%

$1,461/mo ↓ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 22%

146,987

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Denton, TX and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $498/month cheaper in Denton, saving renters about $5,976/year.

Median household income is $10,898/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Denton is $325,700 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Denton vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Denton or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Denton and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Denton is $1,344/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $498/month.

Which city has higher income, Denton or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $73,719 in Denton and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $10,898/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Denton or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Denton has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,344/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: Denton, TX vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Denton

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons