Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $119,136
Population: 873,965
Median Income: $75,413
Population: 978,908
When comparing San Francisco and Austin, the overall cost of living differs by 51.8%. San Francisco carries a cost index of 224 compared to Austin's 108, meaning your dollar stretches 52% further in Austin.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Austin has a housing index of 120 compared to San Francisco's 295. This 175-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Austin.
Austin is more affordable across all categories.
Austin is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in San Francisco, you would need $28,929 in Austin to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $48,214.
The median household income in San Francisco is $119,136 compared to $75,413 in Austin. While San Francisco has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: San Francisco scores 5/10 while Austin scores 7/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: San Francisco has an edge in climate with a 8/10 weather score compared to Austin's 6/10.
Job Market: Both cities have comparable job markets at 9/10.
Austin 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 Francisco may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
