Fairfield, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 167 vs 137

$2,191/mo ↑ 19%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 16%

$102,321/yr ↑ 21%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 17%

$592,500 ↑ 24%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 19%

$2,226/mo ↑ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 20%

119,985

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fairfield, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 167 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $349/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $4,188/year.

Median household income is $17,704/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fairfield is $592,500 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fairfield vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Fairfield 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 167 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fairfield and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Fairfield is $2,191/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $349/month.

Which city has higher income, Fairfield or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $102,321 in Fairfield and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $17,704/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with median rent of $2,191/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: Fairfield, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Fairfield

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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