Denver, CO vs Santa Maria, CA: 147 vs 137

$1,770/mo ↓ 4%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 4%

$91,681/yr ↑ 8%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 8%

$586,700 ↑ 23%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 18%

$1,839/mo ↑ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 3%

713,734

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Denver, CO and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 147 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $72/month cheaper in Denver, saving renters about $864/year.

Median household income is $7,064/year higher in Denver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Denver is $586,700 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Denver vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Denver 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 147 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Denver and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Denver is $1,770/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $72/month.

Which city has higher income, Denver or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $91,681 in Denver and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $7,064/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 Maria?

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

Denver

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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