Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
46% cheaper
Richmond is 46% more affordable than Santa Barbara. A $75,000 salary in Santa Barbara is equivalent to $40,658 in Richmond.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Virginia salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Richmond has a housing index of 108 while Santa Barbara sits at 340 (national average = 100). The median home in Richmond costs $300,000 compared to $1,200,000 in Santa Barbara, a difference of $900,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Richmond versus $3,000 in Santa Barbara.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Richmond scores 100 while Santa Barbara scores 112.
Healthcare costs in Richmond (100) are lower than Santa Barbara (110).
Median household income in Richmond is $50,120 compared to $70,819 in Santa Barbara. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Richmond.
Amazon affiliate links