Elk Grove, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 168 vs 172

$2,180/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↓ 4%

$122,229/yr ↑ 25%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↓ 20%

$603,400 ↓ 12%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 14%

$2,227/mo ↑ 5%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↓ 4%

177,221

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Elk Grove, CA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 168 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $96/month cheaper in Santa Rosa, saving renters about $1,152/year.

Median household income is $24,819/year higher in Elk Grove. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Elk Grove is $603,400 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Elk Grove vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Elk Grove or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Elk Grove is cheaper to live in with an index of 168 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

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

Median rent in Elk Grove is $2,180/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $96/month.

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

Median household income is $122,229 in Elk Grove and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $24,819/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 Rosa?

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

Elk Grove

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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