San Jose, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 254 vs 172

$2,617/mo ↑ 26%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↓ 20%

$141,565/yr ↑ 45%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↓ 31%

$1,187,800 ↑ 73%

Home Value

$685,000 ↓ 42%

$2,775/mo ↑ 30%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↓ 23%

990,054

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Jose, CA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 254 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $533/month cheaper in Santa Rosa, saving renters about $6,396/year.

Median household income is $44,155/year higher in San Jose. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Jose is $1,187,800 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Jose vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is San Jose or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Rosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 172 compared to 254 (US average = 100).

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

Median rent in San Jose is $2,617/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $533/month.

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

Median household income is $141,565 in San Jose and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $44,155/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 Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. San Jose has a cost index of 254 with median rent of $2,617/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: San Jose, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

San Jose

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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