Fremont, CA vs Santa Clara, CA: 278 vs 307

$2,905/mo ↓ 3%

Median Rent

$2,985/mo ↑ 3%

$176,350/yr ↑ 2%

Median Income

$173,670/yr ↓ 2%

$1,289,400 ↓ 16%

Home Value

$1,527,900 ↑ 18%

$3,000/mo ↓ 2%

Owner Costs

$3,051/mo ↑ 2%

228,518

Population

129,239

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fremont, CA and Santa Clara, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 278 and 307 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $80/month cheaper in Fremont, saving renters about $960/year.

Median household income is $2,680/year higher in Fremont. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fremont is $1,289,400 compared to $1,527,900 in Santa Clara.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fremont vs Santa Clara — common questions

Is Fremont or Santa Clara cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fremont is cheaper to live in with an index of 278 compared to 307 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fremont and Santa Clara?

Median rent in Fremont is $2,905/month and in Santa Clara it's $2,985/month — a difference of $80/month.

Which city has higher income, Fremont or Santa Clara?

Median household income is $176,350 in Fremont and $173,670 in Santa Clara. Median household income is $2,680/year higher in Fremont.

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 Fremont or Santa Clara?

It depends on your priorities. Fremont has a cost index of 278 with median rent of $2,905/mo, while Santa Clara has a cost index of 307 with rent of $2,985/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Fremont, CA vs Santa Clara, CA (2026)

Fremont

Santa Clara

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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