Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $117,324
Population: 1,021,795
Median Income: $53,420
Population: 1,547,253
When comparing San Jose and San Antonio, the overall cost of living differs by 59.8%. San Jose carries a cost index of 214 compared to San Antonio's 86, meaning your dollar stretches 60% 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 Jose's 280. This 202-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 Jose, you would need $24,112 in San Antonio to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $40,187.
The median household income in San Jose is $117,324 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. While San Jose has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: San Jose scores 7/10 while San Antonio scores 6/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: San Jose has an edge in climate with a 9/10 weather score compared to San Antonio's 6/10.
Job Market: San Jose's job market (9/10) 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 Jose may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
