Garland, TX vs Santa Maria, CA: 96 vs 137

$1,525/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 21%

$74,717/yr ↓ 12%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 13%

$248,900 ↓ 48%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 92%

$1,445/mo ↓ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 24%

245,298

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Garland, TX and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 96 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $317/month cheaper in Garland, saving renters about $3,804/year.

Median household income is $9,900/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Garland is $248,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Garland vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Garland or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Garland is cheaper to live in with an index of 96 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Garland and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Garland is $1,525/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $317/month.

Which city has higher income, Garland or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $74,717 in Garland and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $9,900/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Garland or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Garland has a cost index of 96 with median rent of $1,525/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: Garland, TX vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Garland

Santa Maria

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Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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