Glendale, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 214 vs 137

$2,095/mo ↑ 14%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 12%

$84,262/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$84,617/yr ≈ Same

$1,043,900 ↑ 118%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 54%

$2,212/mo ↑ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 19%

192,270

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Glendale, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 214 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $253/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $3,036/year.

Median household income is $355/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Glendale is $1,043,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Glendale vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Glendale 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 214 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Glendale and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Glendale is $2,095/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $253/month.

Which city has higher income, Glendale or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $84,262 in Glendale and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $355/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Glendale or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Glendale has a cost index of 214 with median rent of $2,095/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, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Glendale

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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