Waco, TX vs Santa Maria, CA: 72 vs 137

$1,098/mo ↓ 40%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 68%

$51,468/yr ↓ 39%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 64%

$199,600 ↓ 58%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 140%

$1,094/mo ↓ 39%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 64%

141,925

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Waco, TX and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 72 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $744/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $8,928/year.

Median household income is $33,149/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Waco is $199,600 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Waco vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Waco or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Waco and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Waco is $1,098/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $744/month.

Which city has higher income, Waco or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $51,468 in Waco and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $33,149/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Waco or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Waco has a cost index of 72 with median rent of $1,098/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: Waco, TX vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Waco

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons