Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
48% cheaper
Spokane is 48% more affordable than Santa Barbara. A $75,000 salary in Santa Barbara is equivalent to $38,684 in Spokane.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Santa Barbara has a housing index of 340 while Spokane sits at 94 (national average = 100). The median home in Santa Barbara costs $1,200,000 compared to $310,000 in Spokane, a difference of $890,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,000 in Santa Barbara versus $1,200 in Spokane.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Santa Barbara scores 112 while Spokane scores 99.
Healthcare costs in Santa Barbara (110) are higher than Spokane (102).
Median household income in Santa Barbara is $70,819 compared to $48,834 in Spokane. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Spokane.
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