Pearland, TX vs Santa Maria, CA: 121 vs 137

$1,759/mo ↓ 5%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 5%

$112,470/yr ↑ 33%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 25%

$330,900 ↓ 31%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 45%

$1,962/mo ↑ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 9%

125,983

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pearland, TX and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 121 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $83/month cheaper in Pearland, saving renters about $996/year.

Median household income is $27,853/year higher in Pearland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pearland is $330,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Pearland residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pearland vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Pearland or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Pearland is cheaper to live in with an index of 121 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Pearland and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Pearland is $1,759/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $83/month.

Which city has higher income, Pearland or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $112,470 in Pearland and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $27,853/year higher in Pearland.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Pearland or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Pearland has a cost index of 121 with median rent of $1,759/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: Pearland, TX vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Pearland

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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