Fullerton, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 195 vs 137

$2,124/mo ↑ 15%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 13%

$104,219/yr ↑ 23%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 19%

$859,600 ↑ 80%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 44%

$2,251/mo ↑ 26%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 21%

141,278

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fullerton, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 195 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $282/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $3,384/year.

Median household income is $19,602/year higher in Fullerton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fullerton is $859,600 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fullerton vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Fullerton 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 195 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fullerton and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Fullerton is $2,124/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $282/month.

Which city has higher income, Fullerton or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $104,219 in Fullerton and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $19,602/year higher in Fullerton.

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 Fullerton or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Fullerton has a cost index of 195 with median rent of $2,124/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: Fullerton, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Fullerton

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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