Is Denver or San Francisco more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Denver is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and San Francisco.
3
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
CO
Denver
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
706,799
Population
865,933
$78,177
Median Income
+61.4%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,495✓
Median Rent / mo
+42.5%$2,130
$459,100✓
Median Home Price
+160.2%$1,194,500
23%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
4.40%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver 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 →Denver vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver or San Francisco?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Denver wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Denver and San Francisco?
Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or San Francisco?
Denver. 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.