Norfolk, VA vs Santa Maria, CA: 89 vs 137

$1,246/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 48%

$64,017/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 32%

$271,900 ↓ 43%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 76%

$1,366/mo ↓ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 31%

235,037

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $596/month cheaper in Norfolk, saving renters about $7,152/year.

Median household income is $20,600/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Norfolk slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Norfolk or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Norfolk is cheaper to live in with an index of 89 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $596/month.

Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $20,600/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Virginia and California?

Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Norfolk or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/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: Norfolk, VA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Norfolk

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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