Is Seattle or San Francisco more affordable?
Seattle has a median rent of $1,801/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Seattle is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Seattle, WA vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Seattle and San Francisco.
3
Seattle wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
WA
Seattle
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
726,054
Population
865,933
$105,391
Median Income
+19.7%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,801✓
Median Rent / mo
+18.3%$2,130
$767,500✓
Median Home Price
+55.6%$1,194,500
21%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
49.82°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
46.72°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle 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 →Seattle vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Seattle or San Francisco?
Washington has no state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Seattle and San Francisco?
Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Seattle or San Francisco?
Seattle. 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.