Irvine, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 256 vs 172

$2,893/mo ↑ 39%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↓ 28%

$129,647/yr ↑ 33%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↓ 25%

$1,115,400 ↑ 63%

Home Value

$685,000 ↓ 39%

$2,904/mo ↑ 36%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↓ 27%

308,160

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irvine, CA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 256 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $809/month cheaper in Santa Rosa, saving renters about $9,708/year.

Median household income is $32,237/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irvine is $1,115,400 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Irvine vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Irvine or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Rosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 172 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irvine and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Irvine is $2,893/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $809/month.

Which city has higher income, Irvine or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $129,647 in Irvine and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $32,237/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 Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Irvine has a cost index of 256 with median rent of $2,893/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Irvine

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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