Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
34% cheaper
Worcester is 34% more affordable than Santa Barbara. A $75,000 salary in Santa Barbara is equivalent to $49,342 in Worcester.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Santa Barbara has a housing index of 340 while Worcester sits at 152 (national average = 100). The median home in Santa Barbara costs $1,200,000 compared to $340,000 in Worcester, a difference of $860,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,000 in Santa Barbara versus $1,600 in Worcester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Santa Barbara scores 112 while Worcester scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Santa Barbara (110) are lower than Worcester (115).
Median household income in Santa Barbara is $70,819 compared to $52,228 in Worcester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Worcester.
Amazon affiliate links