Long Beach, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 169 vs 137

$1,803/mo ↓ 2%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 2%

$83,969/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$84,617/yr ≈ Same

$762,200 ↑ 59%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 37%

$1,890/mo ↑ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 5%

458,491

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $648/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Long Beach 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 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $39/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $648/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 Long Beach or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/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: Long Beach, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Long Beach

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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