Pomona, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 143 vs 137

$1,738/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 6%

$78,869/yr ↓ 7%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 7%

$569,600 ↑ 19%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 16%

$1,758/mo ↓ 2%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 2%

148,391

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pomona, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 143 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $104/month cheaper in Pomona, saving renters about $1,248/year.

Median household income is $5,748/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pomona is $569,600 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pomona vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Pomona or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Maria is cheaper to live in with an index of 137 compared to 143 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Pomona and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Pomona is $1,738/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $104/month.

Which city has higher income, Pomona or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $78,869 in Pomona and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $5,748/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Pomona or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Pomona has a cost index of 143 with median rent of $1,738/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: Pomona, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Pomona

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons