Is San Diego or Los Angeles more affordable?
San Diego has a median rent of $2,100/month, while Los Angeles is $1,852/month. Los Angeles is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Diego, CA vs Los Angeles, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Diego and Los Angeles.
1
San Diego wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Los Angeles wins
CA
San Diego
vs
CA
Los Angeles
Overview
1,386,932
Population
3,898,747
$79,685✓
Median Income
-13.2%$69,144
Cost of Living
$2,100
Median Rent / mo
-11.8%$1,852✓
$780,000
Median Home Price
-3.8%$750,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
9.50%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
75°F
55°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
266 days
Sunny Days / Year
284 days✓
12"
Annual Rainfall
15"
Who should choose
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Who should choose
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →San Diego vs Los Angeles — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Diego or Los Angeles?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between San Diego and Los Angeles?
San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F
Which city is better for families — San Diego or Los Angeles?
San Diego. Los Angeles. 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.