Portland, OR vs Santa Maria, CA: 138 vs 137

$1,596/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 15%

$88,792/yr ↑ 5%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 5%

$557,600 ↑ 17%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 14%

$1,771/mo ↓ 1%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 1%

642,715

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Portland, OR and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $246/month cheaper in Portland, saving renters about $2,952/year.

Median household income is $4,175/year higher in Portland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Portland is $557,600 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Oregon has a lower income tax rate, making Portland slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Portland vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Portland 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 138 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Portland and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Portland is $1,596/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $246/month.

Which city has higher income, Portland or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $88,792 in Portland and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $4,175/year higher in Portland.

How do taxes compare between Oregon and California?

Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Portland or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Portland has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,596/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: Portland, OR vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Portland

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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