Santa Rosa, CA vs Ventura, CA: 172 vs 183

$2,084/mo ≈ Same

Median Rent

$2,101/mo ≈ Same

$97,410/yr ↓ 3%

Median Income

$100,407/yr ↑ 3%

$685,000 ↓ 12%

Home Value

$778,700 ↑ 14%

$2,130/mo ≈ Same

Owner Costs

$2,118/mo ≈ Same

177,216

Population

109,900

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Rosa, CA and Ventura, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 172 and 183 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $2,997/year higher in Ventura. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Rosa is $685,000 compared to $778,700 in Ventura.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Rosa vs Ventura — common questions

Is Santa Rosa or Ventura cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Rosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 172 compared to 183 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Rosa and Ventura?

Median rent in Santa Rosa is $2,084/month and in Ventura it's $2,101/month — a difference of $17/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Rosa or Ventura?

Median household income is $97,410 in Santa Rosa and $100,407 in Ventura. Median household income is $2,997/year higher in Ventura.

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 Rosa or Ventura?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with median rent of $2,084/mo, while Ventura has a cost index of 183 with rent of $2,101/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Santa Rosa, CA vs Ventura, CA (2026)

Santa Rosa

Ventura

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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