Santa Ana, CA vs Fullerton, CA: 163 vs 195

$1,975/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$2,124/mo ↑ 8%

$88,354/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$104,219/yr ↑ 18%

$657,800 ↓ 23%

Home Value

$859,600 ↑ 31%

$1,965/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$2,251/mo ↑ 15%

311,639

Population

141,278

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Fullerton, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 195 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $149/month cheaper in Santa Ana, saving renters about $1,788/year.

Median household income is $15,865/year higher in Fullerton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $859,600 in Fullerton.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Fullerton — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Fullerton cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 195 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Fullerton?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Fullerton it's $2,124/month — a difference of $149/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Fullerton?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $104,219 in Fullerton. Median household income is $15,865/year higher in Fullerton.

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 Fullerton?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/mo, while Fullerton has a cost index of 195 with rent of $2,124/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Santa Ana

Fullerton

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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