Frisco, TX vs Santa Maria, CA: 162 vs 137

$1,902/mo ↑ 3%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 3%

$146,158/yr ↑ 73%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 42%

$595,400 ↑ 25%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 20%

$2,389/mo ↑ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 25%

210,238

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Frisco, TX and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 162 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $60/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $720/year.

Median household income is $61,541/year higher in Frisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Frisco is $595,400 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Frisco residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frisco vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Frisco or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Maria is cheaper to live in with an index of 137 compared to 162 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Frisco and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Frisco is $1,902/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $60/month.

Which city has higher income, Frisco or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $146,158 in Frisco and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $61,541/year higher in Frisco.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Frisco or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Frisco has a cost index of 162 with median rent of $1,902/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: Frisco, TX vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Frisco

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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