Newark, NJ vs Santa Maria, CA: 100 vs 137

$1,330/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 38%

$48,416/yr ↓ 43%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 75%

$337,800 ↓ 29%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 42%

$1,419/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 26%

307,188

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newark, NJ and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $512/month cheaper in Newark, saving renters about $6,144/year.

Median household income is $36,201/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newark is $337,800 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

New Jersey has a lower income tax rate, making Newark slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newark vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Newark or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Newark and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Newark is $1,330/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $512/month.

Which city has higher income, Newark or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $48,416 in Newark and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $36,201/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between New Jersey and California?

New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Newark or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Newark has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,330/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: Newark, NJ vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Newark

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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