Santa Ana, CA vs Denton, TX: 163 vs 100

$1,975/mo ↑ 47%

Median Rent

$1,344/mo ↓ 32%

$88,354/yr ↑ 20%

Median Income

$73,719/yr ↓ 17%

$657,800 ↑ 102%

Home Value

$325,700 ↓ 50%

$1,965/mo ↑ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,461/mo ↓ 26%

311,639

Population

146,987

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Denton, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $631/month cheaper in Denton, saving renters about $7,572/year.

Median household income is $14,635/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $325,700 in Denton.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Denton residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Denton — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Denton cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Denton?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Denton it's $1,344/month — a difference of $631/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Denton?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $73,719 in Denton. Median household income is $14,635/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between California and Texas?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Santa Ana or Denton?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/mo, while Denton has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,344/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Santa Ana, CA vs Denton, TX (2026)

Santa Ana

Denton

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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