Santa Ana, CA vs Orange, CA: 163 vs 206

$1,975/mo ↓ 12%

Median Rent

$2,252/mo ↑ 14%

$88,354/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$116,945/yr ↑ 32%

$657,800 ↓ 27%

Home Value

$900,700 ↑ 37%

$1,965/mo ↓ 18%

Owner Costs

$2,394/mo ↑ 22%

311,639

Population

138,723

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Orange, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 206 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $277/month cheaper in Santa Ana, saving renters about $3,324/year.

Median household income is $28,591/year higher in Orange. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $900,700 in Orange.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Orange — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Orange cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 206 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Orange?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Orange it's $2,252/month — a difference of $277/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Orange?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $116,945 in Orange. Median household income is $28,591/year higher in Orange.

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 Orange?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/mo, while Orange has a cost index of 206 with rent of $2,252/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Santa Ana

Orange

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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