Is San Francisco or Los Angeles more affordable?
San Francisco has a median rent of $2,130/month, while Los Angeles is $1,852/month. Los Angeles is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Francisco, CA vs Los Angeles, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Francisco and Los Angeles.
1
San Francisco wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Los Angeles wins
CA
San Francisco
vs
CA
Los Angeles
Overview
865,933
Population
3,898,747
$126,187✓
Median Income
-45.2%$69,144
Cost of Living
$2,130
Median Rent / mo
-13.1%$1,852✓
$1,194,500
Median Home Price
-37.2%$750,000✓
20%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
13.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.50%
Climate & Weather
55.62°F
Avg High Temp
75°F
48.76°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
284 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
15"
Who should choose
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco 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 Francisco vs Los Angeles — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Francisco or Los Angeles?
California has a 13.30% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Los Angeles wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between San Francisco and Los Angeles?
Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F
Which city is better for families — San Francisco or Los Angeles?
San Francisco. 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.