Kent, WA vs Santa Maria, CA: 145 vs 137

$1,833/mo ≈ Same

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ≈ Same

$90,416/yr ↑ 7%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 6%

$537,500 ↑ 12%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 11%

$1,915/mo ↑ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 7%

135,015

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kent, WA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 145 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $5,799/year higher in Kent. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kent is $537,500 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Kent residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kent vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Kent 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 145 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kent and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Kent is $1,833/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $9/month.

Which city has higher income, Kent or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $90,416 in Kent and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $5,799/year higher in Kent.

How do taxes compare between Washington and California?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Kent or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Kent has a cost index of 145 with median rent of $1,833/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: Kent, WA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Kent

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons