Savannah, GA vs Santa Maria, CA: 84 vs 137

$1,302/mo ↓ 29%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 41%

$56,782/yr ↓ 33%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 49%

$225,200 ↓ 53%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 112%

$1,257/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 42%

147,546

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Savannah, GA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $540/month cheaper in Savannah, saving renters about $6,480/year.

Median household income is $27,835/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Savannah is $225,200 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Georgia has a lower income tax rate, making Savannah slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Savannah vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Savannah or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Savannah is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Savannah and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Savannah is $1,302/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $540/month.

Which city has higher income, Savannah or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $56,782 in Savannah and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $27,835/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and California?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Savannah or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Savannah has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,302/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Savannah, GA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Savannah

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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