Peoria, AZ vs Santa Maria, CA: 125 vs 137

$1,743/mo ↓ 5%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 6%

$93,403/yr ↑ 10%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 9%

$429,400 ↓ 10%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 11%

$1,589/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 13%

194,338

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Peoria, AZ and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 125 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $99/month cheaper in Peoria, saving renters about $1,188/year.

Median household income is $8,786/year higher in Peoria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Peoria is $429,400 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Peoria slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Peoria vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Peoria or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Peoria is cheaper to live in with an index of 125 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Peoria and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Peoria is $1,743/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $99/month.

Which city has higher income, Peoria or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $93,403 in Peoria and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $8,786/year higher in Peoria.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and California?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Peoria or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Peoria has a cost index of 125 with median rent of $1,743/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: Peoria, AZ vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Peoria

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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