Santa Ana, CA vs Pasadena, CA: 163 vs 220

$1,975/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 12%

$88,354/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 17%

$657,800 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 59%

$1,965/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 19%

311,639

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $243/month cheaper in Santa Ana, saving renters about $2,916/year.

Median household income is $15,424/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Pasadena — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Pasadena?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $243/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Pasadena?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $15,424/year higher in Pasadena.

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 Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Santa Ana

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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