Is Honolulu or San Jose more affordable?
Honolulu has a median rent of $2,100/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Honolulu is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Honolulu, HI vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Honolulu and San Jose.
3
Honolulu wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Jose wins
HI
Honolulu
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
347,397
Population
1,013,240
$81,376
Median Income
+44.4%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$2,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+19.0%$2,500
$750,000✓
Median Home Price
+46.7%$1,100,000
31%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
11.00%
State Income Tax
9.30%✓
4.50%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
85°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
73°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
278 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
257 days
24"
Annual Rainfall
15"
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 Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Honolulu vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Honolulu or San Jose?
Hawaii has a 11.00% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. San Jose wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Honolulu and San Jose?
Honolulu gets 278 sunny days/year. San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Honolulu: 85°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Honolulu or San Jose?
Honolulu. 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.