Plano, TX vs Santa Maria, CA: 132 vs 137

$1,792/mo ↓ 3%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 3%

$108,649/yr ↑ 28%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 22%

$440,600 ↓ 8%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 9%

$1,829/mo ↑ 2%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 2%

287,339

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Plano, TX and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 132 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $50/month cheaper in Plano, saving renters about $600/year.

Median household income is $24,032/year higher in Plano. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Plano is $440,600 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Plano vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Plano or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Plano is cheaper to live in with an index of 132 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Plano and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Plano is $1,792/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $50/month.

Which city has higher income, Plano or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $108,649 in Plano and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $24,032/year higher in Plano.

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 Plano or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Plano has a cost index of 132 with median rent of $1,792/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: Plano, TX vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Plano

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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