Fremont, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 278 vs 172

$2,905/mo ↑ 39%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↓ 28%

$176,350/yr ↑ 81%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↓ 45%

$1,289,400 ↑ 88%

Home Value

$685,000 ↓ 47%

$3,000/mo ↑ 41%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↓ 29%

228,518

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fremont, CA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 278 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $821/month cheaper in Santa Rosa, saving renters about $9,852/year.

Median household income is $78,940/year higher in Fremont. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fremont is $1,289,400 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fremont vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Fremont or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Rosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 172 compared to 278 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fremont and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Fremont is $2,905/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $821/month.

Which city has higher income, Fremont or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $176,350 in Fremont and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $78,940/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 Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Fremont has a cost index of 278 with median rent of $2,905/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: Fremont, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Fremont

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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