San Diego, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 197 vs 137

$2,223/mo ↑ 21%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 17%

$104,321/yr ↑ 23%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 19%

$848,500 ↑ 77%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 44%

$2,308/mo ↑ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 22%

1,385,061

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $381/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $4,572/year.

Median household income is $19,704/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is San Diego 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 197 (US average = 100).

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

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $381/month.

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

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $19,704/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 Maria?

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

San Diego

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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