San Diego, CA vs Santa Ana, CA: 197 vs 163

$2,223/mo ↑ 13%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↓ 11%

$104,321/yr ↑ 18%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↓ 15%

$848,500 ↑ 29%

Home Value

$657,800 ↓ 22%

$2,308/mo ↑ 17%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↓ 15%

1,385,061

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $248/month cheaper in Santa Ana, saving renters about $2,976/year.

Median household income is $15,967/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is San Diego or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Santa Ana?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $248/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $15,967/year higher in San Diego.

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 San Diego or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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: San Diego, CA vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

San Diego

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons