Oakland, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 195 vs 172

$1,917/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 9%

$97,369/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$97,410/yr ≈ Same

$924,700 ↑ 35%

Home Value

$685,000 ↓ 26%

$2,164/mo ↑ 2%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↓ 2%

438,072

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Oakland, CA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 195 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $167/month cheaper in Oakland, saving renters about $2,004/year.

Median household income is $41/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Oakland is $924,700 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Oakland vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Oakland or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Rosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 172 compared to 195 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Oakland and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Oakland is $1,917/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $167/month.

Which city has higher income, Oakland or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $97,369 in Oakland and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $41/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Oakland has a cost index of 195 with median rent of $1,917/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: Oakland, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Oakland

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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