Durham, NC vs Santa Maria, CA: 105 vs 137

$1,412/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 30%

$79,234/yr ↓ 6%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 7%

$355,300 ↓ 26%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 35%

$1,434/mo ↓ 20%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 25%

288,465

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Durham, NC and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $430/month cheaper in Durham, saving renters about $5,160/year.

Median household income is $5,383/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Durham is $355,300 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Durham slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Durham vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Durham or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Durham is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Durham and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Durham is $1,412/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $430/month.

Which city has higher income, Durham or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $79,234 in Durham and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $5,383/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and California?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Durham or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Durham has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,412/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: Durham, NC vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Durham

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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