Compton, CA vs Santa Paula, CA

Compton, CA and Santa Paula, CA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.6% difference in their overall index. Compton scores 134 while Santa Paula scores 137 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Compton is $1,601/month compared to $1,698/month in Santa Paula — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Compton is more affordable at $546,700 median vs $559,300.

Median household income in Compton is $74,270 compared to $77,130 in Santa Paula (-3.7%). While Santa Paula is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Compton spend roughly 25.9% of their income on rent, less than the 26.4% in Santa Paula.