Meridian, ID vs Santa Maria, CA: 131 vs 137

$1,714/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 7%

$98,686/yr ↑ 17%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 14%

$485,000 ↑ 1%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 1%

$1,607/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 11%

124,865

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Meridian, ID and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 131 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $128/month cheaper in Meridian, saving renters about $1,536/year.

Median household income is $14,069/year higher in Meridian. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Meridian is $485,000 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Idaho has a lower income tax rate, making Meridian slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meridian vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Meridian or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Meridian is cheaper to live in with an index of 131 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Meridian and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Meridian is $1,714/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $128/month.

Which city has higher income, Meridian or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $98,686 in Meridian and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $14,069/year higher in Meridian.

How do taxes compare between Idaho and California?

Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Meridian or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Meridian has a cost index of 131 with median rent of $1,714/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: Meridian, ID vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Meridian

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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