Midland, TX vs Santa Maria, CA: 99 vs 137

$1,407/mo ↓ 24%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 31%

$91,169/yr ↑ 8%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 7%

$298,600 ↓ 38%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 60%

$1,468/mo ↓ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 22%

133,998

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Midland, TX and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $435/month cheaper in Midland, saving renters about $5,220/year.

Median household income is $6,552/year higher in Midland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Midland is $298,600 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Midland residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Midland vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Midland or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Midland is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Midland and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Midland is $1,407/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $435/month.

Which city has higher income, Midland or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $91,169 in Midland and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $6,552/year higher in Midland.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Midland or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Midland has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,407/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: Midland, TX vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Midland

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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