Is Boston or San Diego more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Boston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and San Diego.
4
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Diego wins
MA
Boston
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
672,814
Population
1,386,932
$81,744✓
Median Income
-2.5%$79,685
Cost of Living
$1,783✓
Median Rent / mo
+17.8%$2,100
$610,400✓
Median Home Price
+27.8%$780,000
26%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
5.00%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston 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 →Boston vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or San Diego?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and San Diego?
San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or San Diego?
Boston. 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.