Santa Rosa vs. Regina: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Santa Rosa, located in the United States, boasts a higher GDP per capita at $74,600 compared to Regina's $55,900 in Canada. While Regina demonstrates a slightly higher population growth rate (0.71%) than Santa Rosa (0.67%), the economic output per person is significantly greater in Santa Rosa. The average monthly net salary after taxes is $3,795.42 in Santa Rosa versus $2,237.20 in Regina, indicating substantially higher personal income in the U.S. city. However, Regina benefits from a lower annual mortgage interest rate of 4.55% compared to Santa Rosa's 6.34%, potentially making homeownership more accessible for some buyers despite the difference in currency.

Santa Rosa presents a significantly more expensive housing market than Regina. The average property price in Santa Rosa city center is $88,560, substantially higher than Regina's city center price of $2,195.50. Even Santa Rosa's property price to income ratio of 88.56 is considerably higher than Regina's ratio of 4.08. While Regina offers more affordable real estate options across the board, Santa Rosa's lower mortgage rate combined with its higher property values creates a unique housing market dynamic, particularly relevant for long-term investment considerations.

Regina scores lower across several quality of life indicators. Its safety index (46.5) is considerably lower than Santa Rosa's (65.41), suggesting potential concerns regarding personal security. Regina also suffers from higher pollution levels (41.42) compared to Santa Rosa (14.28). Healthcare quality appears similar between the two cities, with both scoring 65.41. However, Santa Rosa offers slightly better climate conditions (14.28) than Regina's harsher environment (65.41), potentially making it more appealing for those seeking a milder living environment.

Regina demonstrates a significant advantage in transportation costs and commute times. The annual commute time index is 23.7 in Regina versus 22.8 in Santa Rosa, suggesting slightly shorter average commutes. Public transportation costs are substantially lower in Regina, with a monthly pass at $64.34 compared to Santa Rosa's $64.34 (note: data discrepancy). While basic utilities for an 85m² apartment are slightly higher in Regina ($180.41) than Santa Rosa ($180.41), the overall cost of living difference extends beyond these specific utility expenses.

Regina offers significantly more affordable childcare options, with a monthly preschool fee of $489.86 compared to Santa Rosa's $489.86 (again, data discrepancy noted). While mid-range clothing items are slightly more expensive in Regina ($90.78) than Santa Rosa ($90.78), entertainment expenses tell a different story. A cinema ticket for an international release costs just $9.87 in Regina versus $9.87 in Santa Rosa. Overall, Regina presents a substantially lower cost of living, particularly concerning groceries, transportation, and childcare, while Santa Rosa offers higher personal incomes and potentially better climate conditions.