Portland, OR vs Santa Rosa, CA: 138 vs 172

$1,596/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 31%

$88,792/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 10%

$557,600 ↓ 19%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 23%

$1,771/mo ↓ 17%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 20%

642,715

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Portland, OR and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $488/month cheaper in Portland, saving renters about $5,856/year.

Median household income is $8,618/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Portland is $557,600 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Portland vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Portland or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Portland is cheaper to live in with an index of 138 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Portland and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Portland is $1,596/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $488/month.

Which city has higher income, Portland or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $88,792 in Portland and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $8,618/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Portland has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,596/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Portland, OR vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Portland

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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