Santa Ana, CA vs Columbia, MO: 163 vs 80

$1,975/mo ↑ 85%

Median Rent

$1,067/mo ↓ 46%

$88,354/yr ↑ 37%

Median Income

$64,488/yr ↓ 27%

$657,800 ↑ 145%

Home Value

$268,300 ↓ 59%

$1,965/mo ↑ 76%

Owner Costs

$1,114/mo ↓ 43%

311,639

Population

127,200

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Columbia, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $908/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $10,896/year.

Median household income is $23,866/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $268,300 in Columbia.

Missouri has a lower income tax rate, making Columbia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Columbia — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Columbia?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Columbia it's $1,067/month — a difference of $908/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Columbia?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $64,488 in Columbia. Median household income is $23,866/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between California and Missouri?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Santa Ana or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,067/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Santa Ana, CA vs Columbia, MO (2026)

Santa Ana

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons