Vallejo, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 155 vs 137

$2,013/mo ↑ 9%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 8%

$89,496/yr ↑ 6%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 5%

$557,500 ↑ 17%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 14%

$2,058/mo ↑ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 13%

124,637

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Vallejo, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 155 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $171/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $2,052/year.

Median household income is $4,879/year higher in Vallejo. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Vallejo is $557,500 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Vallejo vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Vallejo 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 155 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Vallejo and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Vallejo is $2,013/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $171/month.

Which city has higher income, Vallejo or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $89,496 in Vallejo and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $4,879/year higher in Vallejo.

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 Vallejo or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Vallejo has a cost index of 155 with median rent of $2,013/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: Vallejo, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Vallejo

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons