Tempe, AZ vs Santa Maria, CA: 120 vs 137

$1,623/mo ↓ 12%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 13%

$77,643/yr ↓ 8%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 9%

$421,900 ↓ 12%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 13%

$1,554/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 15%

186,419

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $219/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $2,628/year.

Median household income is $6,974/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Tempe or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $219/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $6,974/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Tempe or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/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: Tempe, AZ vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Tempe

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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