Is Atlanta or San Francisco more affordable?
Atlanta has a median rent of $1,700/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Atlanta is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Atlanta, GA vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Atlanta and San Francisco.
4
Atlanta wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
GA
Atlanta
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
498,715
Population
865,933
$72,081
Median Income
+75.1%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,700✓
Median Rent / mo
+25.3%$2,130
$390,000✓
Median Home Price
+206.3%$1,194,500
28%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
5.49%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
8.90%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
72°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
217 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
52"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta is a city in Georgia with a population of 498,715.
Read full Atlanta 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 →Atlanta vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Atlanta or San Francisco?
Georgia has a 5.49% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Atlanta wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Atlanta and San Francisco?
Atlanta gets 217 sunny days/year. Avg high in Atlanta: 72°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Atlanta or San Francisco?
Atlanta. 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.