Santa Ana, CA vs Providence, RI: 163 vs 99

$1,975/mo ↑ 48%

Median Rent

$1,333/mo ↓ 33%

$88,354/yr ↑ 32%

Median Income

$66,772/yr ↓ 24%

$657,800 ↑ 104%

Home Value

$322,800 ↓ 51%

$1,965/mo ↑ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,467/mo ↓ 25%

311,639

Population

190,214

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Providence, RI, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $642/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $7,704/year.

Median household income is $21,582/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $322,800 in Providence.

Rhode Island has a lower income tax rate, making Providence slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Providence — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Providence cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Providence?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Providence it's $1,333/month — a difference of $642/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Providence?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $66,772 in Providence. Median household income is $21,582/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between California and Rhode Island?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to Santa Ana or Providence?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/mo, while Providence has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,333/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Santa Ana

Providence

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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