Is San Diego or San Francisco more affordable?
San Diego has a median rent of $2,100/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. San Diego is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Diego, CA vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Diego and San Francisco.
4
San Diego wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
CA
San Diego
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
1,386,932
Population
865,933
$79,685
Median Income
+58.4%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$2,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+1.4%$2,130
$780,000✓
Median Home Price
+53.1%$1,194,500
32%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
9.30%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
55°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
266 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
12"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →San Diego vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Diego or San Francisco?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. San Diego wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between San Diego and San Francisco?
San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — San Diego or San Francisco?
San Diego. 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.