San Francisco, CA vs San Jose, CA: Cost of Living
Compare the cost of living between San Francisco, CA and San Jose, CA. See the equivalent salary and median rent powered by BLS Regional Price Parities.
San Francisco, CA
CA
- Overall RPP (US=100)
- 117.9
- Housing RPP
- 206.4
- Goods RPP
- 114.5
- 2-BR median rent
- $3,359/mo
California income tax 1%-13.3% (highest in nation). No city income tax.
San Jose, CA
CA
- Overall RPP (US=100)
- 115.3
- Housing RPP
- 233.3
- Goods RPP
- 108.9
- 2-BR median rent
- $3,132/mo
California income tax 1%-13.3%. No city income tax.
Equivalent salary
San Jose, CA is cheaper than San Francisco, CA by about 2.2% (RPP 117.9 to 115.3).
$60,000 in San Francisco, CA
-> $58,677
in San Jose, CA
$100,000 in San Francisco, CA
-> $97,795
in San Jose, CA
$150,000 in San Francisco, CA
-> $146,692
in San Jose, CA
This tool provides estimates only. Equivalent-salary figures are derived from BLS Regional Price Parities (RPP) and HUD Fair Market Rents — they are averages, not guarantees. Actual cost of living varies by neighborhood, lifestyle, and individual circumstances. Not financial advice.
Frequently asked questions
- Is San Jose, CA cheaper or more expensive than San Francisco, CA?
- San Jose, CA (RPP 115.3) is cheaper than San Francisco, CA (RPP 117.9) by about 2.2%.
- What salary do I need in San Jose, CA if I earn $100,000 in San Francisco, CA?
- You would need approximately $97,795 in San Jose, CA to maintain the same purchasing power as $100,000 in San Francisco, CA. Formula: $100,000 x (115.3 / 117.9).