Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $119,136
Population: 873,965
Median Income: $55,530
Population: 949,611
When comparing San Francisco and Jacksonville, the overall cost of living differs by 58.9%. San Francisco carries a cost index of 224 compared to Jacksonville's 92, meaning your dollar stretches 59% further in Jacksonville.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Jacksonville has a housing index of 88 compared to San Francisco's 295. This 207-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Jacksonville.
Jacksonville is more affordable across all categories.
Jacksonville is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in San Francisco, you would need $24,643 in Jacksonville to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $41,071.
The median household income in San Francisco is $119,136 compared to $55,530 in Jacksonville. While San Francisco has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: San Francisco scores 5/10 while Jacksonville scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: San Francisco has an edge in climate with a 8/10 weather score compared to Jacksonville's 7/10.
Job Market: San Francisco's job market (9/10) is stronger than Jacksonville's (6/10).
Jacksonville 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.
