Is San Diego or Virginia Beach more affordable?
San Diego has a median rent of $2,100/month, while Virginia Beach is $1,350/month. Virginia Beach is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Diego, CA vs Virginia Beach, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Diego and Virginia Beach.
2
San Diego wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Virginia Beach wins
CA
San Diego
vs
VA
Virginia Beach
Overview
1,386,932
Population
459,470
$79,685✓
Median Income
-10.2%$71,551
Cost of Living
$2,100
Median Rent / mo
-35.7%$1,350✓
$780,000
Median Home Price
-56.4%$340,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
5.75%✓
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
67°F
55°F
Avg Low Temp
48°F
266 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
12"
Annual Rainfall
46"
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 →Who should choose
Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 459,470.
Read full Virginia Beach guide →San Diego vs Virginia Beach — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Diego or Virginia Beach?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Virginia Beach wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between San Diego and Virginia Beach?
San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Virginia Beach gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F. Avg high in Virginia Beach: 67°F
Which city is better for families — San Diego or Virginia Beach?
San Diego. Virginia Beach. 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.