Hampton, VA vs Santa Maria, CA: 88 vs 137

$1,346/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 37%

$67,758/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 25%

$234,100 ↓ 51%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 104%

$1,347/mo ↓ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 33%

137,334

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Hampton, VA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $496/month cheaper in Hampton, saving renters about $5,952/year.

Median household income is $16,859/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Hampton is $234,100 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Hampton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hampton vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Hampton or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Hampton is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Hampton and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Hampton is $1,346/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $496/month.

Which city has higher income, Hampton or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $67,758 in Hampton and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $16,859/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Virginia and California?

Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Hampton or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Hampton has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,346/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: Hampton, VA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Hampton

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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