Tampa, FL vs Santa Maria, CA: 113 vs 137

$1,567/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 18%

$71,302/yr ↓ 16%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 19%

$375,300 ↓ 22%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 27%

$1,553/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 15%

393,389

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tampa, FL and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 113 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $275/month cheaper in Tampa, saving renters about $3,300/year.

Median household income is $13,315/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tampa is $375,300 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tampa vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Tampa or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tampa is cheaper to live in with an index of 113 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tampa and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Tampa is $1,567/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $275/month.

Which city has higher income, Tampa or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $71,302 in Tampa and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $13,315/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Florida and California?

Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Tampa or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Tampa has a cost index of 113 with median rent of $1,567/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: Tampa, FL vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Tampa

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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