Seattle, WA vs Santa Ana, CA: 196 vs 163

$1,998/mo ↑ 1%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↓ 1%

$121,984/yr ↑ 38%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↓ 28%

$912,100 ↑ 39%

Home Value

$657,800 ↓ 28%

$2,220/mo ↑ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↓ 11%

741,440

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $33,630/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Seattle or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Seattle and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $23/month.

Which city has higher income, Seattle or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $33,630/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Washington and California?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% 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 Seattle or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/mo, while Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with rent of $1,975/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Seattle

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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