Norman, OK vs Santa Maria, CA: 76 vs 137

$1,064/mo ↓ 42%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 73%

$65,060/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 30%

$239,300 ↓ 50%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 100%

$1,121/mo ↓ 37%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 60%

128,714

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norman, OK and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $778/month cheaper in Norman, saving renters about $9,336/year.

Median household income is $19,557/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norman is $239,300 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Oklahoma has a lower income tax rate, making Norman slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norman vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Norman or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Norman is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Norman and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Norman is $1,064/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $778/month.

Which city has higher income, Norman or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $65,060 in Norman and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $19,557/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Oklahoma and California?

Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Norman or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Norman has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,064/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: Norman, OK vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Norman

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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