Santa Ana, CA vs Fremont, CA: 163 vs 278

$1,975/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$2,905/mo ↑ 47%

$88,354/yr ↓ 50%

Median Income

$176,350/yr ↑ 100%

$657,800 ↓ 49%

Home Value

$1,289,400 ↑ 96%

$1,965/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$3,000/mo ↑ 53%

311,639

Population

228,518

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Fremont, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 278 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $930/month cheaper in Santa Ana, saving renters about $11,160/year.

Median household income is $87,996/year higher in Fremont. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $1,289,400 in Fremont.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Fremont — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Fremont cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 278 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Fremont?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Fremont it's $2,905/month — a difference of $930/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Fremont?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $176,350 in Fremont. Median household income is $87,996/year higher in Fremont.

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 Fremont?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/mo, while Fremont has a cost index of 278 with rent of $2,905/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Santa Ana

Fremont

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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