Is Houston or San Francisco more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and San Francisco.
4
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
TX
Houston
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
2,304,580
Population
865,933
$52,338
Median Income
+141.1%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+70.4%$2,130
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+350.8%$1,194,500
29%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
204 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
50"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston 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 →Houston vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or San Francisco?
Texas has no state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Houston and San Francisco?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or San Francisco?
Houston. 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.