Eugene, OR vs Santa Maria, CA: 111 vs 137

$1,347/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 37%

$63,836/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 33%

$435,400 ↓ 9%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 10%

$1,421/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 26%

177,520

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Eugene, OR and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 111 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $495/month cheaper in Eugene, saving renters about $5,940/year.

Median household income is $20,781/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Eugene is $435,400 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Oregon has a lower income tax rate, making Eugene slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Eugene vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Eugene or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Eugene is cheaper to live in with an index of 111 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Eugene and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Eugene is $1,347/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $495/month.

Which city has higher income, Eugene or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $63,836 in Eugene and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $20,781/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Oregon and California?

Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Eugene or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Eugene has a cost index of 111 with median rent of $1,347/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: Eugene, OR vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Eugene

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons