Is San Jose or San Francisco more affordable?
San Jose has a median rent of $2,500/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. San Francisco is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Jose, CA vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Jose and San Francisco.
3
San Jose wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Francisco wins
CA
San Jose
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
1,013,240
Population
865,933
$117,474
Median Income
+7.4%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$2,500
Median Rent / mo
-14.8%$2,130✓
$1,100,000✓
Median Home Price
+8.6%$1,194,500
26%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
9.30%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
9.38%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
257 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
15"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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 Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →San Jose vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Jose or San Francisco?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. San Jose wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between San Jose and San Francisco?
San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — San Jose or San Francisco?
San Jose. San Francisco. 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.