Is Salt Lake City or San Francisco more affordable?
Salt Lake City has a median rent of $1,450/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Salt Lake City is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Salt Lake City, UT vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Salt Lake City and San Francisco.
4
Salt Lake City wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
UT
Salt Lake City
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
199,723
Population
865,933
$58,000
Median Income
+117.6%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,450✓
Median Rent / mo
+46.9%$2,130
$480,000✓
Median Home Price
+148.9%$1,194,500
30%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
4.65%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
222 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
17"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City 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 →Salt Lake City vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Salt Lake City or San Francisco?
Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Salt Lake City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Salt Lake City and San Francisco?
Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Salt Lake City or San Francisco?
Salt Lake City. 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.