Fargo, ND vs Santa Maria, CA: 73 vs 137

$916/mo ↓ 50%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 101%

$66,029/yr ↓ 22%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 28%

$269,800 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 77%

$997/mo ↓ 44%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 79%

129,064

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fargo, ND and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 73 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $926/month cheaper in Fargo, saving renters about $11,112/year.

Median household income is $18,588/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fargo is $269,800 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

North Dakota has a lower income tax rate, making Fargo slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fargo vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Fargo or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fargo is cheaper to live in with an index of 73 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fargo and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Fargo is $916/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $926/month.

Which city has higher income, Fargo or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $66,029 in Fargo and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $18,588/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between North Dakota and California?

North Dakota has 2.5% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.98% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Fargo or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Fargo has a cost index of 73 with median rent of $916/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: Fargo, ND vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Fargo

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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