Is Baltimore or San Francisco more affordable?
Baltimore has a median rent of $1,400/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Baltimore is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baltimore, MD vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baltimore and San Francisco.
4
Baltimore wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
MD
Baltimore
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
576,498
Population
865,933
$52,164
Median Income
+141.9%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,400✓
Median Rent / mo
+52.1%$2,130
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+443.0%$1,194,500
32%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
5.75%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
45°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
210 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
43"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is a city in Maryland with a population of 576,498.
Read full Baltimore guide →Who should choose
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →Baltimore vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baltimore or San Francisco?
Maryland has a 5.75% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Baltimore wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baltimore and San Francisco?
Baltimore gets 210 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baltimore: 64°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Baltimore or San Francisco?
Baltimore. San Francisco. 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.