Is San Jose or San Diego more affordable?
San Jose has a median rent of $2,500/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. San Diego is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Jose, CA vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Jose and San Diego.
1
San Jose wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
San Diego wins
CA
San Jose
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
1,013,240
Population
1,386,932
$117,474✓
Median Income
-32.2%$79,685
Cost of Living
$2,500
Median Rent / mo
-16.0%$2,100✓
$1,100,000
Median Home Price
-29.1%$780,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
9.38%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
257 days
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
15"
Annual Rainfall
12"
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
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →San Jose vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Jose or San Diego?
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 San Diego?
San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — San Jose or San Diego?
San Jose. San Diego. 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.