Is San Diego or San Jose more affordable?
San Diego has a median rent of $2,100/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. San Diego is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Diego, CA vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Diego and San Jose.
3
San Diego wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Jose wins
CA
San Diego
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
1,386,932
Population
1,013,240
$79,685
Median Income
+47.4%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$2,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+19.0%$2,500
$780,000✓
Median Home Price
+41.0%$1,100,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
55°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
266 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
257 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
San Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →San Diego vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Diego or San Jose?
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 San Jose?
San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — San Diego or San Jose?
San Diego. San Jose. 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.