Is Boston or San Francisco more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Boston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and San Francisco.
3
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
MA
Boston
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
672,814
Population
865,933
$81,744
Median Income
+54.4%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,783✓
Median Rent / mo
+19.5%$2,130
$610,400✓
Median Home Price
+95.7%$1,194,500
26%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
5.00%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston 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 →Boston vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or San Francisco?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and San Francisco?
Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or San Francisco?
Boston. 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.