Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
33% cheaper
Sacramento is 33% more affordable than Santa Barbara. A $75,000 salary in Santa Barbara is equivalent to $50,526 in Sacramento.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Sacramento has a housing index of 163 while Santa Barbara sits at 340 (national average = 100). The median home in Sacramento costs $450,000 compared to $1,200,000 in Santa Barbara, a difference of $750,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Sacramento versus $3,000 in Santa Barbara.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Sacramento scores 104 while Santa Barbara scores 112.
Healthcare costs in Sacramento (106) are lower than Santa Barbara (110).
Median household income in Sacramento is $64,660 compared to $70,819 in Santa Barbara. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Sacramento.
Amazon affiliate links