Modesto, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 120 vs 137

$1,609/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 14%

$77,899/yr ↓ 8%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 9%

$415,600 ↓ 13%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 15%

$1,613/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 11%

218,614

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Modesto, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $233/month cheaper in Modesto, saving renters about $2,796/year.

Median household income is $6,718/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Modesto is $415,600 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Modesto vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Modesto or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Modesto is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Modesto and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $233/month.

Which city has higher income, Modesto or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $77,899 in Modesto and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $6,718/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 Modesto or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Modesto has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,609/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: Modesto, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Modesto

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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