Is Los Angeles or San Francisco more affordable?
Los Angeles has a median rent of $1,852/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Los Angeles is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Los Angeles, CA vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
4
Los Angeles wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
CA
Los Angeles
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
3,898,747
Population
865,933
$69,144
Median Income
+82.5%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,852✓
Median Rent / mo
+15.0%$2,130
$750,000✓
Median Home Price
+59.3%$1,194,500
32%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
9.30%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
9.50%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
75°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
58°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
284 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
15"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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 Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →Los Angeles vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Los Angeles or San Francisco?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Los Angeles wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Los Angeles and San Francisco?
Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Los Angeles or San Francisco?
Los Angeles. 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.