Reno, NV vs Santa Maria, CA: 122 vs 137

$1,453/mo ↓ 21%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 27%

$78,448/yr ↓ 7%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 8%

$498,600 ↑ 4%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 4%

$1,482/mo ↓ 17%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 21%

268,959

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Reno, NV and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 122 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $389/month cheaper in Reno, saving renters about $4,668/year.

Median household income is $6,169/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Reno is $498,600 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Reno vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Reno or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Reno is cheaper to live in with an index of 122 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Reno and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Reno is $1,453/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $389/month.

Which city has higher income, Reno or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $78,448 in Reno and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $6,169/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Nevada and California?

Nevada has 0% income tax, 6.85% sales tax, and 0.53% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Reno or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Reno has a cost index of 122 with median rent of $1,453/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: Reno, NV vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Reno

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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