Is Austin or San Diego more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Austin is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and San Diego.
3
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
TX
Austin
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
944,658
Population
1,386,932
$78,965
Median Income
+0.9%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,415✓
Median Rent / mo
+48.4%$2,100
$381,400✓
Median Home Price
+104.5%$780,000
22%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Who should choose
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Austin vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or San Diego?
Texas has no state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Austin and San Diego?
San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or San Diego?
Austin. San Diego. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.