Lexington, KY vs Santa Maria, CA: 82 vs 137

$1,101/mo ↓ 40%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 67%

$67,631/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 25%

$272,100 ↓ 43%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 76%

$1,160/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 54%

321,122

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $741/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $8,892/year.

Median household income is $16,986/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Kentucky has a lower income tax rate, making Lexington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Lexington or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lexington and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $741/month.

Which city has higher income, Lexington or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $16,986/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Kentucky and California?

Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Lexington or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/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: Lexington, KY vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Lexington

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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