Is Richmond or Sacramento more affordable?
Richmond has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Richmond is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Richmond, VA vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Richmond and Sacramento.
3
Richmond wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Sacramento wins
VA
Richmond
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
226,610
Population
524,943
$52,000
Median Income
+16.8%$60,715✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+32.0%$1,650
$290,000✓
Median Home Price
+72.4%$500,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
5.75%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
68°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
47°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
205 days
Sunny Days / Year
269 days✓
44"
Annual Rainfall
18"
Who should choose
Richmond, VA
Richmond is a city in Virginia with a population of 226,610.
Read full Richmond guide →Who should choose
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Richmond vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Richmond or Sacramento?
Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Richmond wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Richmond and Sacramento?
Richmond gets 205 sunny days/year. Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Richmond: 68°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Richmond or Sacramento?
Richmond. Sacramento. 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.