Richmond, VA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 98 vs 172

$1,314/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 59%

$62,671/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 55%

$328,100 ↓ 52%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 109%

$1,374/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 55%

227,595

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Richmond, VA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 98 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $770/month cheaper in Richmond, saving renters about $9,240/year.

Median household income is $34,739/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Richmond is $328,100 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Richmond slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Richmond vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Richmond or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Richmond is cheaper to live in with an index of 98 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Richmond and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Richmond is $1,314/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $770/month.

Which city has higher income, Richmond or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $62,671 in Richmond and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $34,739/year higher in Santa Rosa.

How do taxes compare between Virginia and California?

Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Richmond or Santa Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Richmond has a cost index of 98 with median rent of $1,314/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: Richmond, VA vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Richmond

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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