Elgin, IL vs Santa Maria, CA: 90 vs 137

$1,260/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 46%

$88,316/yr ↑ 4%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 4%

$252,400 ↓ 47%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 89%

$1,502/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 19%

114,106

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Elgin, IL and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $582/month cheaper in Elgin, saving renters about $6,984/year.

Median household income is $3,699/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Elgin is $252,400 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Elgin slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Elgin vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Elgin or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Elgin is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Elgin and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Elgin is $1,260/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $582/month.

Which city has higher income, Elgin or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $88,316 in Elgin and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $3,699/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and California?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Elgin or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Elgin has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,260/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: Elgin, IL vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Elgin

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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