Is San Francisco or Seattle more affordable?
San Francisco has a median rent of $2,130/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Seattle is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Francisco, CA vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Francisco and Seattle.
1
San Francisco wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Seattle wins
CA
San Francisco
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
865,933
Population
726,054
$126,187✓
Median Income
-16.5%$105,391
Cost of Living
$2,130
Median Rent / mo
-15.4%$1,801✓
$1,194,500
Median Home Price
-35.7%$767,500✓
20%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
13.30%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
55.62°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
48.76°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →San Francisco vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Francisco or Seattle?
California has a 13.30% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between San Francisco and Seattle?
Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — San Francisco or Seattle?
San Francisco. 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.