Irvine, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 256 vs 137

$2,893/mo ↑ 57%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 36%

$129,647/yr ↑ 53%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 35%

$1,115,400 ↑ 133%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 57%

$2,904/mo ↑ 62%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 38%

308,160

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irvine, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 256 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,051/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $12,612/year.

Median household income is $45,030/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irvine is $1,115,400 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Irvine vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Irvine 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 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irvine and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Irvine is $2,893/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $1,051/month.

Which city has higher income, Irvine or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $129,647 in Irvine and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $45,030/year higher in Irvine.

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 Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Irvine has a cost index of 256 with median rent of $2,893/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: Irvine, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Irvine

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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