Is Philadelphia or San Francisco more affordable?
Philadelphia has a median rent of $1,100/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Philadelphia and San Francisco.
4
Philadelphia wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
PA
Philadelphia
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
1,603,797
Population
865,933
$49,127
Median Income
+156.9%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+93.6%$2,130
$210,000✓
Median Home Price
+468.8%$1,194,500
27%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
3.07%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
208 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
42"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia 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 →Philadelphia vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Philadelphia or San Francisco?
Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Philadelphia and San Francisco?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Philadelphia or San Francisco?
Philadelphia. 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.