Lancaster, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 124 vs 137

$1,696/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 9%

$76,083/yr ↓ 10%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 11%

$409,100 ↓ 14%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 17%

$1,746/mo ↓ 2%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 2%

170,013

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lancaster, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 124 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $146/month cheaper in Lancaster, saving renters about $1,752/year.

Median household income is $8,534/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lancaster is $409,100 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Lancaster vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Lancaster or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lancaster is cheaper to live in with an index of 124 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lancaster and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Lancaster is $1,696/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $146/month.

Which city has higher income, Lancaster or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $76,083 in Lancaster and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $8,534/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Lancaster or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Lancaster has a cost index of 124 with median rent of $1,696/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: Lancaster, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Lancaster

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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