Is Fresno or San Jose more affordable?
Fresno has a median rent of $1,100/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Fresno, CA vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Fresno and San Jose.
3
Fresno wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Jose wins
CA
Fresno
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
542,107
Population
1,013,240
$47,625
Median Income
+146.7%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+127.3%$2,500
$320,000✓
Median Home Price
+243.8%$1,100,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.35%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
78°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
272 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
257 days
11"
Annual Rainfall
15"
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 Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Fresno vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Fresno or San Jose?
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 San Jose?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Fresno or San Jose?
Fresno. San Jose. 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.