Oakland, CA vs Santa Ana, CA: 195 vs 163

$1,917/mo ↓ 3%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 3%

$97,369/yr ↑ 10%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↓ 9%

$924,700 ↑ 41%

Home Value

$657,800 ↓ 29%

$2,164/mo ↑ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↓ 9%

438,072

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Oakland, CA and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 195 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $58/month cheaper in Oakland, saving renters about $696/year.

Median household income is $9,015/year higher in Oakland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Oakland is $924,700 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Oakland vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Oakland or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 195 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Oakland and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Oakland is $1,917/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $58/month.

Which city has higher income, Oakland or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $97,369 in Oakland and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $9,015/year higher in Oakland.

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 Oakland or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Oakland has a cost index of 195 with median rent of $1,917/mo, while Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with rent of $1,975/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Oakland, CA vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Oakland

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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