Stockton, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 115 vs 137

$1,495/mo ↓ 19%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 23%

$76,851/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 10%

$412,900 ↓ 14%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 16%

$1,555/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 15%

320,470

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Stockton, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 115 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $347/month cheaper in Stockton, saving renters about $4,164/year.

Median household income is $7,766/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Stockton is $412,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Stockton vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Stockton or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Stockton is cheaper to live in with an index of 115 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Stockton and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Stockton is $1,495/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $347/month.

Which city has higher income, Stockton or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $76,851 in Stockton and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $7,766/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Stockton or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Stockton has a cost index of 115 with median rent of $1,495/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: Stockton, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Stockton

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons