Is Honolulu or San Francisco more affordable?
Honolulu has a median rent of $2,100/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Honolulu is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Honolulu, HI vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Honolulu and San Francisco.
4
Honolulu wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
HI
Honolulu
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
347,397
Population
865,933
$81,376
Median Income
+55.1%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$2,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+1.4%$2,130
$750,000✓
Median Home Price
+59.3%$1,194,500
31%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
11.00%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
4.50%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
85°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
73°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
278 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
24"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu is a city in Hawaii with a population of 347,397.
Read full Honolulu 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 →Honolulu vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Honolulu or San Francisco?
Hawaii has a 11.00% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Honolulu wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Honolulu and San Francisco?
Honolulu gets 278 sunny days/year. Avg high in Honolulu: 85°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Honolulu or San Francisco?
Honolulu. 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.