Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $83,454
Population: 1,423,851
Median Income: $53,420
Population: 1,547,253
When comparing San Diego and San Antonio, the overall cost of living differs by 47.9%. San Diego carries a cost index of 165 compared to San Antonio's 86, meaning your dollar stretches 48% further in San Antonio.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. San Antonio has a housing index of 78 compared to San Diego's 210. This 132-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in San Antonio.
San Antonio is more affordable across all categories.
San Antonio is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in San Diego, you would need $31,273 in San Antonio to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $52,121.
The median household income in San Diego is $83,454 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. While San Diego has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: San Diego scores 7/10 while San Antonio scores 6/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: San Diego has an edge in climate with a 10/10 weather score compared to San Antonio's 6/10.
Job Market: San Diego's job market (7/10) is stronger than San Antonio's (6/10).
San Antonio is the more affordable option overall, but cost is just one factor in deciding where to live. Consider your career opportunities, family needs, and lifestyle preferences alongside the financial comparison. San Diego may justify its higher costs with excellent weather that many residents find worthwhile.
