Is San Francisco or San Jose more affordable?
San Francisco has a median rent of $2,130/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. San Francisco is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Francisco, CA vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Francisco and San Jose.
2
San Francisco wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
San Jose wins
CA
San Francisco
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
865,933
Population
1,013,240
$126,187✓
Median Income
-6.9%$117,474
Cost of Living
$2,130✓
Median Rent / mo
+17.4%$2,500
$1,194,500
Median Home Price
-7.9%$1,100,000✓
20%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
13.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
55.62°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
48.76°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
257 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
San Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →San Francisco vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Francisco or San Jose?
California has a 13.30% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. San Jose wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between San Francisco and San Jose?
San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — San Francisco or San Jose?
San Francisco. 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.