Is San Jose or Seattle more affordable?
San Jose has a median rent of $2,500/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Seattle is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Jose, CA vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Jose and Seattle.
2
San Jose wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Seattle wins
CA
San Jose
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
1,013,240
Population
726,054
$117,474✓
Median Income
-10.3%$105,391
Cost of Living
$2,500
Median Rent / mo
-28.0%$1,801✓
$1,100,000
Median Home Price
-30.2%$767,500✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
None✓
9.38%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →San Jose vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Jose or Seattle?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between San Jose and Seattle?
San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — San Jose or Seattle?
San Jose. 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.