Is Fresno or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Fresno has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Fresno, CA vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Fresno and Salt Lake City.
3
Fresno wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Salt Lake City wins
CA
Fresno
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
542,107
Population
199,723
$47,625
Median Income
+21.8%$58,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+31.8%$1,450
$320,000✓
Median Home Price
+50.0%$480,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
4.65%✓
8.35%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
78°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
272 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
222 days
11"
Annual Rainfall
17"
Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Fresno vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Fresno or Salt Lake City?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Salt Lake City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Fresno and Salt Lake City?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Fresno or Salt Lake City?
Fresno. Salt Lake City. 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.