Mortgage Rates in Santa Maria, California — March 2026
Updated March 2026 | Based on Santa Maria market data and regional lending conditions
Santa Maria is a growing city in California with a population of 109,988. The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Santa Maria is 6.55%, which is 0.1% below the national average. With a median home price of $535,000 and a 20% down payment of $107,000, homebuyers can expect a monthly principal and interest payment of approximately $2,719.
Current Mortgage Rates in Santa Maria, CA
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Santa Maria area as of March 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.55% | 6.65% | -0.1% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.79% | 5.89% | -0.1% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.05% | 6.15% | -0.1% |
| FHA | 6.15% | 6.25% | -0.1% |
| VA | 5.95% | 6.05% | -0.1% |
| Jumbo | 6.75% | 6.85% | -0.1% |
Santa Maria Housing Market Overview
The Santa Maria housing market is competitive with prices well above the national median. The median household income in Santa Maria is $55,250, and the cost of living index is 112.5 (national average = 100). Based on the 28% affordability rule, you would need an income of approximately $131,057 to comfortably afford the median-priced home in Santa Maria, which exceeds the current median household income.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Santa Maria
Based on the median home price of $535,000 with 20% down ($107,000), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Santa Maria:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Santa Maria
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Santa Maria at 5.79% instead of a 30-year at 6.55% would save you $337,500 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $3,563 instead of $2,719 — an increase of $844 per month.
Calculate Your Santa Maria Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Santa Maria
What are the current mortgage rates in Santa Maria, CA?
As of March 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Santa Maria, California is 6.55%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.79%. FHA loans average 6.15% and VA loans 5.95%. These rates are 0.1% below the national average of 6.65%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Santa Maria?
Based on the median home price of $535,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Santa Maria is $2,719 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $339/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $3,058.
What income do I need to buy a home in Santa Maria?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $131,057 to afford the median-priced home in Santa Maria at $535,000. The median household income in Santa Maria is $55,250. This means most households would need to either earn above the median or consider homes below $535,000.
Is Santa Maria a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Santa Maria has a moderate cost of living with a cost of living index of 112.5 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in California is 0.76%, which is below the national average. Santa Maria has a population of 109,988 and offers a balanced lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other California Cities
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Last updated: March 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Santa Maria, California area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.