Irvine, CA vs Santa Clara, CA: 256 vs 307

$2,893/mo ↓ 3%

Median Rent

$2,985/mo ↑ 3%

$129,647/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$173,670/yr ↑ 34%

$1,115,400 ↓ 27%

Home Value

$1,527,900 ↑ 37%

$2,904/mo ↓ 5%

Owner Costs

$3,051/mo ↑ 5%

308,160

Population

129,239

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irvine, CA and Santa Clara, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 256 and 307 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $92/month cheaper in Irvine, saving renters about $1,104/year.

Median household income is $44,023/year higher in Santa Clara. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irvine is $1,115,400 compared to $1,527,900 in Santa Clara.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Irvine vs Santa Clara — common questions

Is Irvine or Santa Clara cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Irvine is cheaper to live in with an index of 256 compared to 307 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irvine and Santa Clara?

Median rent in Irvine is $2,893/month and in Santa Clara it's $2,985/month — a difference of $92/month.

Which city has higher income, Irvine or Santa Clara?

Median household income is $129,647 in Irvine and $173,670 in Santa Clara. Median household income is $44,023/year higher in Santa Clara.

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 Irvine or Santa Clara?

It depends on your priorities. Irvine has a cost index of 256 with median rent of $2,893/mo, while Santa Clara has a cost index of 307 with rent of $2,985/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Irvine, CA vs Santa Clara, CA (2026)

Irvine

Santa Clara

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons