Richmond, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 161 vs 137

$1,895/mo ↑ 3%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 3%

$90,038/yr ↑ 6%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 6%

$650,100 ↑ 36%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 26%

$2,015/mo ↑ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 11%

115,396

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Richmond, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 161 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $53/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $636/year.

Median household income is $5,421/year higher in Richmond. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Richmond is $650,100 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Richmond vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Richmond 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 161 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Richmond and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Richmond is $1,895/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $53/month.

Which city has higher income, Richmond or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $90,038 in Richmond and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $5,421/year higher in Richmond.

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 Richmond or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Richmond has a cost index of 161 with median rent of $1,895/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: Richmond, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Richmond

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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