Santa Ana, CA vs Chula Vista, CA: 163 vs 178

$1,975/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$2,122/mo ↑ 7%

$88,354/yr ↓ 16%

Median Income

$105,173/yr ↑ 19%

$657,800 ↓ 6%

Home Value

$697,400 ↑ 6%

$1,965/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$2,342/mo ↑ 19%

311,639

Population

275,030

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Chula Vista, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 178 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $147/month cheaper in Santa Ana, saving renters about $1,764/year.

Median household income is $16,819/year higher in Chula Vista. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $697,400 in Chula Vista.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Chula Vista — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Chula Vista cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 178 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Chula Vista?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Chula Vista it's $2,122/month — a difference of $147/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Chula Vista?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $105,173 in Chula Vista. Median household income is $16,819/year higher in Chula Vista.

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 Santa Ana or Chula Vista?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/mo, while Chula Vista has a cost index of 178 with rent of $2,122/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Santa Ana, CA vs Chula Vista, CA (2026)

Santa Ana

Chula Vista

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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