Is Honolulu or San Diego more affordable?
Honolulu has a median rent of $2,100/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Both cities have similar rent costs.
City comparison
Honolulu, HI vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Honolulu and San Diego.
3
Honolulu wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Diego wins
HI
Honolulu
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
347,397
Population
1,386,932
$81,376✓
Median Income
-2.1%$79,685
Cost of Living
$2,100
Median Rent / mo
-0.0%$2,100
$750,000✓
Median Home Price
+4.0%$780,000
31%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
11.00%
State Income Tax
9.30%✓
4.50%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
85°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
73°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
278 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
266 days
24"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu is a city in Hawaii with a population of 347,397.
Read full Honolulu guide →Who should choose
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Honolulu vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Honolulu or San Diego?
Hawaii has a 11.00% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. San Diego wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Honolulu and San Diego?
Honolulu gets 278 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Honolulu: 85°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Honolulu or San Diego?
Honolulu. San Diego. 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.