Is Denver or San Diego more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Denver is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and San Diego.
3
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
CO
Denver
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
706,799
Population
1,386,932
$78,177
Median Income
+1.9%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,495✓
Median Rent / mo
+40.5%$2,100
$459,100✓
Median Home Price
+69.9%$780,000
23%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
4.40%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver 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 →Denver vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver or San Diego?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Denver wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Denver and San Diego?
San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or San Diego?
Denver. 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.