Elk Grove, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 168 vs 137

$2,180/mo ↑ 18%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 16%

$122,229/yr ↑ 44%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 31%

$603,400 ↑ 26%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 21%

$2,227/mo ↑ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 20%

177,221

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Elk Grove, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 168 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $338/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $4,056/year.

Median household income is $37,612/year higher in Elk Grove. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Elk Grove is $603,400 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Elk Grove vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Elk Grove 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 168 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Elk Grove and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Elk Grove is $2,180/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $338/month.

Which city has higher income, Elk Grove or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $122,229 in Elk Grove and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $37,612/year higher in Elk Grove.

How do taxes compare between California and California?

Both cities are in California and share the same state tax rates: 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Elk Grove or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Elk Grove has a cost index of 168 with median rent of $2,180/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: Elk Grove, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Elk Grove

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons