Is Los Angeles or San Diego more affordable?
Los Angeles has a median rent of $1,852/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Los Angeles is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Los Angeles, CA vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Los Angeles and San Diego.
3
Los Angeles wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Diego wins
CA
Los Angeles
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
3,898,747
Population
1,386,932
$69,144
Median Income
+15.2%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,852✓
Median Rent / mo
+13.4%$2,100
$750,000✓
Median Home Price
+4.0%$780,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
9.50%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
75°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
58°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
284 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
266 days
15"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles 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 →Los Angeles vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Los Angeles or San Diego?
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 Los Angeles and San Diego?
Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Los Angeles or San Diego?
Los Angeles. 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.