Gilbert, AZ vs Santa Rosa, CA: 148 vs 172

$2,028/mo ↓ 3%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 3%

$121,351/yr ↑ 25%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↓ 20%

$518,600 ↓ 24%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 32%

$1,908/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 12%

271,118

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Gilbert, AZ and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 148 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $56/month cheaper in Gilbert, saving renters about $672/year.

Median household income is $23,941/year higher in Gilbert. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Gilbert is $518,600 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Gilbert slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gilbert vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Gilbert or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Gilbert is cheaper to live in with an index of 148 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Gilbert and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Gilbert is $2,028/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $56/month.

Which city has higher income, Gilbert or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $121,351 in Gilbert and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $23,941/year higher in Gilbert.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and California?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Gilbert or Santa Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Gilbert has a cost index of 148 with median rent of $2,028/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: Gilbert, AZ vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Gilbert

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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