Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
13% cheaper
Los Angeles is 13% more affordable than Santa Barbara. A $75,000 salary in Santa Barbara is equivalent to $65,526 in Los Angeles.
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. Los Angeles has a housing index of 262 while Santa Barbara sits at 340 (national average = 100). The median home in Los Angeles costs $850,000 compared to $1,200,000 in Santa Barbara, a difference of $350,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,700 in Los Angeles versus $3,000 in Santa Barbara.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Los Angeles scores 107 while Santa Barbara scores 112.
Healthcare costs in Los Angeles (103) are lower than Santa Barbara (110).
Median household income in Los Angeles is $65,290 compared to $70,819 in Santa Barbara. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Los Angeles.
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