Reno, NV vs Santa Rosa, CA: 122 vs 172

$1,453/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 43%

$78,448/yr ↓ 19%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 24%

$498,600 ↓ 27%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 37%

$1,482/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 44%

268,959

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Reno, NV and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 122 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $631/month cheaper in Reno, saving renters about $7,572/year.

Median household income is $18,962/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Reno is $498,600 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa — common questions

Is Reno or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Reno is cheaper to live in with an index of 122 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Reno and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Reno is $1,453/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $631/month.

Which city has higher income, Reno or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $78,448 in Reno and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $18,962/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa?

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

Reno

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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