Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $119,136
Population: 873,965
Median Income: $56,831
Population: 1,343,573
When comparing San Francisco and Dallas, the overall cost of living differs by 57.1%. San Francisco carries a cost index of 224 compared to Dallas's 96, meaning your dollar stretches 57% further in Dallas.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Dallas has a housing index of 95 compared to San Francisco's 295. This 200-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Dallas.
Dallas is more affordable across all categories.
Dallas is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in San Francisco, you would need $25,714 in Dallas to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $42,857.
The median household income in San Francisco is $119,136 compared to $56,831 in Dallas. While San Francisco has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: San Francisco scores 5/10 while Dallas scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: San Francisco has an edge in climate with a 8/10 weather score compared to Dallas's 6/10.
Job Market: San Francisco's job market (9/10) is stronger than Dallas's (8/10).
Dallas 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.
