Durham, NC vs Santa Rosa, CA: 105 vs 172

$1,412/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 48%

$79,234/yr ↓ 19%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 23%

$355,300 ↓ 48%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 93%

$1,434/mo ↓ 33%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 49%

288,465

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Durham, NC and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $672/month cheaper in Durham, saving renters about $8,064/year.

Median household income is $18,176/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Durham is $355,300 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Durham vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Durham or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Durham is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Durham and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Durham is $1,412/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $672/month.

Which city has higher income, Durham or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $79,234 in Durham and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $18,176/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Durham has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,412/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Durham, NC vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Durham

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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