Fresno, CA vs Santa Ana, CA: 101 vs 163

$1,324/mo ↓ 33%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 49%

$66,804/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↑ 32%

$348,500 ↓ 47%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 89%

$1,391/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 41%

543,615

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $651/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $7,812/year.

Median household income is $21,550/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Fresno or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $651/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $21,550/year higher in Santa Ana.

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 Fresno or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/mo, while Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with rent of $1,975/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Fresno, CA vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Fresno

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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