Visalia, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 104 vs 137

$1,397/mo ↓ 24%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 32%

$79,952/yr ↓ 6%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 6%

$340,600 ↓ 29%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 40%

$1,509/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 19%

142,649

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Visalia, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 104 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $445/month cheaper in Visalia, saving renters about $5,340/year.

Median household income is $4,665/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Visalia is $340,600 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Visalia vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Visalia or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Visalia is cheaper to live in with an index of 104 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Visalia and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Visalia is $1,397/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $445/month.

Which city has higher income, Visalia or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $79,952 in Visalia and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $4,665/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Visalia or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Visalia has a cost index of 104 with median rent of $1,397/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: Visalia, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Visalia

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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