Lincoln, NE vs Santa Maria, CA: 77 vs 137

$1,045/mo ↓ 43%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 76%

$69,991/yr ↓ 17%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 21%

$248,200 ↓ 48%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 93%

$1,140/mo ↓ 36%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 57%

291,932

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lincoln, NE and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 77 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $797/month cheaper in Lincoln, saving renters about $9,564/year.

Median household income is $14,626/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lincoln is $248,200 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Nebraska has a lower income tax rate, making Lincoln slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lincoln vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Lincoln or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lincoln is cheaper to live in with an index of 77 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lincoln and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Lincoln is $1,045/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $797/month.

Which city has higher income, Lincoln or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $69,991 in Lincoln and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $14,626/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Nebraska and California?

Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Lincoln or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Lincoln has a cost index of 77 with median rent of $1,045/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: Lincoln, NE vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Lincoln

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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