Newark, NJ vs Santa Rosa, CA: 100 vs 172

$1,330/mo ↓ 36%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 57%

$48,416/yr ↓ 50%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 101%

$337,800 ↓ 51%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 103%

$1,419/mo ↓ 33%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 50%

307,188

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newark, NJ and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $754/month cheaper in Newark, saving renters about $9,048/year.

Median household income is $48,994/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newark is $337,800 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Newark vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Newark or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Newark is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Newark and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Newark is $1,330/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $754/month.

Which city has higher income, Newark or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $48,416 in Newark and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $48,994/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Newark has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,330/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Newark, NJ vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Newark

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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