Madison, WI vs Santa Maria, CA: 103 vs 137

$1,364/mo ↓ 26%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 35%

$76,983/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 10%

$346,900 ↓ 27%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 38%

$1,476/mo ↓ 17%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 21%

275,568

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $478/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $5,736/year.

Median household income is $7,634/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Wisconsin has a lower income tax rate, making Madison slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Madison or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $478/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $7,634/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and California?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Madison or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/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: Madison, WI vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Madison

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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