Glendale, AZ vs Santa Maria, CA: 102 vs 137

$1,397/mo ↓ 24%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 32%

$70,139/yr ↓ 17%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 21%

$347,000 ↓ 27%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 38%

$1,356/mo ↓ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 32%

250,193

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Glendale, AZ and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 102 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $445/month cheaper in Glendale, saving renters about $5,340/year.

Median household income is $14,478/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Glendale is $347,000 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Glendale vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Glendale or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Glendale is cheaper to live in with an index of 102 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Glendale and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Glendale is $1,397/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $445/month.

Which city has higher income, Glendale or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $70,139 in Glendale and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $14,478/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Glendale or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Glendale has a cost index of 102 with median rent of $1,397/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: Glendale, AZ vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Glendale

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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