Denver, CO vs Santa Ana, CA: 147 vs 163

$1,770/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 12%

$91,681/yr ↑ 4%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↓ 4%

$586,700 ↓ 11%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 12%

$1,839/mo ↓ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 7%

713,734

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Denver, CO and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 147 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $205/month cheaper in Denver, saving renters about $2,460/year.

Median household income is $3,327/year higher in Denver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Denver is $586,700 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Denver slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Denver vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Denver or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Denver is cheaper to live in with an index of 147 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Denver and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Denver is $1,770/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $205/month.

Which city has higher income, Denver or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $91,681 in Denver and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $3,327/year higher in Denver.

How do taxes compare between Colorado and California?

Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Denver or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Denver has a cost index of 147 with median rent of $1,770/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: Denver, CO vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Denver

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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