Lincoln, NE vs Santa Rosa, CA: 77 vs 172

$1,045/mo ↓ 50%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 99%

$69,991/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 39%

$248,200 ↓ 64%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 176%

$1,140/mo ↓ 46%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 87%

291,932

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lincoln, NE and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 77 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,039/month cheaper in Lincoln, saving renters about $12,468/year.

Median household income is $27,419/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lincoln is $248,200 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Lincoln vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Lincoln or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lincoln is cheaper to live in with an index of 77 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lincoln and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Lincoln is $1,045/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $1,039/month.

Which city has higher income, Lincoln or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $69,991 in Lincoln and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $27,419/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa?

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

Lincoln

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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