Is San Diego or Seattle more affordable?
San Diego has a median rent of $2,100/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Seattle is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Diego, CA vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Diego and Seattle.
1
San Diego wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Seattle wins
CA
San Diego
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
1,386,932
Population
726,054
$79,685
Median Income
+32.3%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$2,100
Median Rent / mo
-14.2%$1,801✓
$780,000
Median Home Price
-1.6%$767,500✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
55°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →San Diego vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Diego 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 San Diego and Seattle?
San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — San Diego or Seattle?
San Diego. 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.