Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $119,136
Population: 873,965
Median Income: $69,778
Population: 3,979,576
When comparing San Francisco and Los Angeles, the overall cost of living differs by 25.9%. San Francisco carries a cost index of 224 compared to Los Angeles's 166, meaning your dollar stretches 26% further in Los Angeles.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Los Angeles has a housing index of 208 compared to San Francisco's 295. This 87-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles is more affordable across all categories.
Los Angeles is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in San Francisco, you would need $44,464 in Los Angeles to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $74,107.
The median household income in San Francisco is $119,136 compared to $69,778 in Los Angeles. While San Francisco has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: San Francisco scores 5/10 while Los Angeles scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Los Angeles enjoys better weather with a score of 9/10 versus San Francisco's 8/10.
Job Market: San Francisco's job market (9/10) is stronger than Los Angeles's (8/10).
Los Angeles 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.
