San Jose, CA vs Santa Ana, CA: 254 vs 163

$2,617/mo ↑ 33%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↓ 25%

$141,565/yr ↑ 60%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↓ 38%

$1,187,800 ↑ 81%

Home Value

$657,800 ↓ 45%

$2,775/mo ↑ 41%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↓ 29%

990,054

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Jose, CA and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 254 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $642/month cheaper in Santa Ana, saving renters about $7,704/year.

Median household income is $53,211/year higher in San Jose. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Jose is $1,187,800 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Jose vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is San Jose 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 254 (US average = 100).

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

Median rent in San Jose is $2,617/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $642/month.

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

Median household income is $141,565 in San Jose and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $53,211/year higher in San Jose.

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 Jose or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. San Jose has a cost index of 254 with median rent of $2,617/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 Jose, CA vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

San Jose

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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