Is Fresno or Seattle more affordable?
Fresno has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Fresno, CA vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Fresno and Seattle.
3
Fresno wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
CA
Fresno
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
542,107
Population
726,054
$47,625
Median Income
+121.3%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+63.7%$1,801
$320,000✓
Median Home Price
+139.8%$767,500
28%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
None✓
8.35%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
78°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
272 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
11"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Fresno vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Fresno or Seattle?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Fresno and Seattle?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Fresno or Seattle?
Fresno. Seattle. 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.