Riverside, CA vs Santa Ana, CA: 144 vs 163

$1,812/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 9%

$88,575/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$88,354/yr ≈ Same

$542,100 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 21%

$1,880/mo ↓ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 5%

316,241

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Riverside, CA and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 144 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $163/month cheaper in Riverside, saving renters about $1,956/year.

Median household income is $221/year higher in Riverside. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Riverside is $542,100 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Riverside vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Riverside or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Riverside is cheaper to live in with an index of 144 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Riverside and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Riverside is $1,812/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $163/month.

Which city has higher income, Riverside or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $88,575 in Riverside and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $221/year higher in Riverside.

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 Riverside or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Riverside has a cost index of 144 with median rent of $1,812/mo, while Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with rent of $1,975/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Riverside, CA vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Riverside

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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