Warren, MI vs Santa Maria, CA: 73 vs 137

$1,184/mo ↓ 36%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 56%

$63,741/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 33%

$181,900 ↓ 62%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 163%

$1,098/mo ↓ 39%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 63%

138,128

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Warren, MI and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 73 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $658/month cheaper in Warren, saving renters about $7,896/year.

Median household income is $20,876/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Warren is $181,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Warren slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Warren vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Warren or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Warren is cheaper to live in with an index of 73 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Warren and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Warren is $1,184/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $658/month.

Which city has higher income, Warren or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $63,741 in Warren and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $20,876/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Michigan and California?

Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Warren or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Warren has a cost index of 73 with median rent of $1,184/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: Warren, MI vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Warren

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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