Is Fresno or Sacramento more affordable?
Fresno has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Fresno, CA vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Fresno and Sacramento.
3
Fresno wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Sacramento wins
CA
Fresno
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
542,107
Population
524,943
$47,625
Median Income
+27.5%$60,715✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+50.0%$1,650
$320,000✓
Median Home Price
+56.3%$500,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.35%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
78°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
272 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
269 days
11"
Annual Rainfall
18"
Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Who should choose
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Fresno vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Fresno or Sacramento?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Fresno and Sacramento?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Fresno or Sacramento?
Fresno. Sacramento. 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.