Santa Ana, CA vs Richmond, CA: 163 vs 161

$1,975/mo ↑ 4%

Median Rent

$1,895/mo ↓ 4%

$88,354/yr ↓ 2%

Median Income

$90,038/yr ↑ 2%

$657,800 ↑ 1%

Home Value

$650,100 ↓ 1%

$1,965/mo ↓ 2%

Owner Costs

$2,015/mo ↑ 3%

311,639

Population

115,396

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Richmond, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 161 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $80/month cheaper in Richmond, saving renters about $960/year.

Median household income is $1,684/year higher in Richmond. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $650,100 in Richmond.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Richmond — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Richmond cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Richmond is cheaper to live in with an index of 161 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Richmond?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Richmond it's $1,895/month — a difference of $80/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Richmond?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $90,038 in Richmond. Median household income is $1,684/year higher in Richmond.

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 Richmond?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/mo, while Richmond has a cost index of 161 with rent of $1,895/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Santa Ana

Richmond

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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