Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
52% cheaper
Syracuse is 52% more affordable than Santa Barbara. A $75,000 salary in Santa Barbara is equivalent to $36,316 in Syracuse.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · New York salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Santa Barbara has a housing index of 340 while Syracuse sits at 69 (national average = 100). The median home in Santa Barbara costs $1,200,000 compared to $140,000 in Syracuse, a difference of $1,060,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,000 in Santa Barbara versus $950 in Syracuse.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Santa Barbara scores 112 while Syracuse scores 101.
Healthcare costs in Santa Barbara (110) are higher than Syracuse (100).
Median household income in Santa Barbara is $70,819 compared to $36,708 in Syracuse. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Syracuse.
Amazon affiliate links