Is New York or San Francisco more affordable?
New York has a median rent of -$666,666,666/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. New York is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
New York, NY vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between New York and San Francisco.
3
New York wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
NY
New York
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
353
Population
865,933
$106,420
Median Income
+18.6%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
-$666,666,666✓
Median Rent / mo
-100.0%$2,130
$158,900✓
Median Home Price
+651.7%$1,194,500
-7517384%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
10.90%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
46.99°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
42.17°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
New York, NY
New York is a city in New York with a population of 353.
Read full New York 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 →New York vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — New York or San Francisco?
New York has a 10.90% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. New York wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between New York and San Francisco?
Avg high in New York: 46.99°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — New York or San Francisco?
New York. 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.