Is Portland or San Francisco more affordable?
Portland has a median rent of $1,406/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Portland is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Portland, OR vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Portland and San Francisco.
3
Portland wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
OR
Portland
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
647,176
Population
865,933
$78,476
Median Income
+60.8%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,406✓
Median Rent / mo
+51.5%$2,130
$462,800✓
Median Home Price
+158.1%$1,194,500
21%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
9.90%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
50.49°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
46.76°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland 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 →Portland vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Portland or San Francisco?
Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Portland wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Portland and San Francisco?
Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Portland or San Francisco?
Portland. 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.