Is San Jose or Fresno more affordable?
San Jose has a median rent of $2,500/month, while Fresno is $1,100/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Jose, CA vs Fresno, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Jose and Fresno.
1
San Jose wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Fresno wins
CA
San Jose
vs
CA
Fresno
Overview
1,013,240
Population
542,107
$117,474✓
Median Income
-59.5%$47,625
Cost of Living
$2,500
Median Rent / mo
-56.0%$1,100✓
$1,100,000
Median Home Price
-70.9%$320,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
9.38%
Local Tax Rate
8.35%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
78°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
257 days
Sunny Days / Year
272 days✓
15"
Annual Rainfall
11"
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 →Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →San Jose vs Fresno — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Jose or Fresno?
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 Jose and Fresno?
San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F
Which city is better for families — San Jose or Fresno?
San Jose. Fresno. 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.