Salem, OR vs Santa Maria, CA: 105 vs 137

$1,323/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 39%

$71,900/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 18%

$382,400 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 25%

$1,440/mo ↓ 20%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 24%

176,666

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Salem, OR and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $519/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $6,228/year.

Median household income is $12,717/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Salem is $382,400 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Oregon has a lower income tax rate, making Salem slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Salem vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Salem or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Salem and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Salem is $1,323/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $519/month.

Which city has higher income, Salem or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $71,900 in Salem and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $12,717/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Oregon and California?

Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Salem or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Salem has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,323/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: Salem, OR vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Salem

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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