Is Columbus or San Francisco more affordable?
Columbus has a median rent of $1,050/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Columbus is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Columbus, OH vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Columbus and San Francisco.
4
Columbus wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
OH
Columbus
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
905,748
Population
865,933
$53,373
Median Income
+136.4%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,050✓
Median Rent / mo
+102.9%$2,130
$240,000✓
Median Home Price
+397.7%$1,194,500
24%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
3.99%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
7.50%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
178 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
39"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Columbus, OH
Columbus is a city in Ohio with a population of 905,748.
Read full Columbus 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 →Columbus vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Columbus or San Francisco?
Ohio has a 3.99% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Columbus wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Columbus and San Francisco?
Columbus gets 178 sunny days/year. Avg high in Columbus: 62°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Columbus or San Francisco?
Columbus. 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.