Is Fresno or San Francisco more affordable?
Fresno has a median rent of $1,100/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Fresno, CA vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Fresno and San Francisco.
4
Fresno wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
CA
Fresno
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
542,107
Population
865,933
$47,625
Median Income
+165.0%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+93.6%$2,130
$320,000✓
Median Home Price
+273.3%$1,194,500
28%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
9.30%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
8.35%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
78°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
272 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
11"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno 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 →Fresno vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Fresno or San Francisco?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Fresno wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Fresno and San Francisco?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Fresno or San Francisco?
Fresno. 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.