Thornton, CO vs Santa Maria, CA: 138 vs 137

$1,810/mo ↓ 2%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 2%

$100,985/yr ↑ 19%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 16%

$482,200 ≈ Same

Home Value

$478,200 ≈ Same

$1,914/mo ↑ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 7%

142,878

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Thornton, CO and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $16,368/year higher in Thornton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Thornton is $482,200 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Thornton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thornton vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Thornton or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Maria is cheaper to live in with an index of 137 compared to 138 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Thornton and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Thornton is $1,810/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $32/month.

Which city has higher income, Thornton or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $100,985 in Thornton and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $16,368/year higher in Thornton.

How do taxes compare between Colorado and California?

Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Thornton or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Thornton has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,810/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: Thornton, CO vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Thornton

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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