Is Sacramento or Seattle more affordable?
Sacramento has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Sacramento is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Sacramento, CA vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Sacramento and Seattle.
3
Sacramento wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
CA
Sacramento
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
524,943
Population
726,054
$60,715
Median Income
+73.6%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,650✓
Median Rent / mo
+9.2%$1,801
$500,000✓
Median Home Price
+53.5%$767,500
33%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
None✓
8.75%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
73°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
269 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
18"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Sacramento vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Sacramento 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 Sacramento and Seattle?
Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Sacramento or Seattle?
Sacramento. 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.