Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
40% cheaper
Ann Arbor is 40% more affordable than Santa Barbara. A $75,000 salary in Santa Barbara is equivalent to $45,000 in Ann Arbor.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Michigan salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Ann Arbor has a housing index of 135 while Santa Barbara sits at 340 (national average = 100). The median home in Ann Arbor costs $400,000 compared to $1,200,000 in Santa Barbara, a difference of $800,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,600 in Ann Arbor versus $3,000 in Santa Barbara.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Ann Arbor scores 101 while Santa Barbara scores 112.
Healthcare costs in Ann Arbor (101) are lower than Santa Barbara (110).
Median household income in Ann Arbor is $65,024 compared to $70,819 in Santa Barbara. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Ann Arbor.
Amazon affiliate links