Peoria, IL vs Santa Maria, CA: 61 vs 137

$951/mo ↓ 48%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 94%

$58,716/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 44%

$149,500 ↓ 69%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 220%

$1,007/mo ↓ 44%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 78%

112,126

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Peoria, IL and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $891/month cheaper in Peoria, saving renters about $10,692/year.

Median household income is $25,901/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Peoria is $149,500 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Illinois 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 61 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Peoria and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Peoria is $951/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $891/month.

Which city has higher income, Peoria or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $58,716 in Peoria and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $25,901/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and California?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% 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 61 with median rent of $951/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, IL vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Peoria

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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