Fresno, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 101 vs 137

$1,324/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 39%

$66,804/yr ↓ 21%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 27%

$348,500 ↓ 27%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 37%

$1,391/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 29%

543,615

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $518/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $6,216/year.

Median household income is $17,813/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Fresno or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $518/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $17,813/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/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: Fresno, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Fresno

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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