Ontario, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 152 vs 172

$1,916/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 9%

$82,806/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 18%

$568,000 ↓ 17%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 21%

$1,967/mo ↓ 8%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 8%

178,347

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Ontario, CA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 152 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $168/month cheaper in Ontario, saving renters about $2,016/year.

Median household income is $14,604/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Ontario is $568,000 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Ontario vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Ontario or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Ontario is cheaper to live in with an index of 152 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Ontario and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Ontario is $1,916/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $168/month.

Which city has higher income, Ontario or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $82,806 in Ontario and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $14,604/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 Ontario or Santa Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Ontario has a cost index of 152 with median rent of $1,916/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: Ontario, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Ontario

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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