Fresno, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 101 vs 172

$1,324/mo ↓ 36%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 57%

$66,804/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 46%

$348,500 ↓ 49%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 97%

$1,391/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 53%

543,615

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $760/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $9,120/year.

Median household income is $30,606/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Fresno or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $760/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $30,606/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa?

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

Fresno

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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