Surprise, AZ vs Santa Maria, CA: 126 vs 137

$1,917/mo ↑ 4%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 4%

$93,371/yr ↑ 10%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 9%

$396,000 ↓ 17%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 21%

$1,587/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 13%

149,519

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Surprise, AZ and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $75/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $900/year.

Median household income is $8,754/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Surprise is $396,000 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Surprise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Surprise vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Surprise or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Surprise is cheaper to live in with an index of 126 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Surprise and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Surprise is $1,917/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $75/month.

Which city has higher income, Surprise or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $93,371 in Surprise and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $8,754/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and California?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Surprise or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Surprise has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,917/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: Surprise, AZ vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Surprise

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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