Cost of Living: San Francisco, CA vs Seattle, WA
Analyzing index metrics between San Francisco and Seattle relative to the US average baseline (100). San Francisco is estimated to be 35% more expensive overall than Seattle. Rental housing in Seattle runs about 24% lower than in San Francisco.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | San Francisco, CA | Seattle, WA | Difference for Seattle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 190 | 155 | -18% |
| Rent Index | 230 | 175 | -24% |
| Home Price Index | 260 | 190 | -27% |
| Utilities | 120 | 115 | -4% |
| Groceries | 140 | 132 | -6% |
| Transportation | 150 | 130 | -13% |
| Healthcare | 125 | 120 | -4% |
San Francisco, CA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in San Francisco.
Seattle, WA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Seattle.
Planning a move between these cities?
Cost of living indexes provide a directional guide, but real rent rates, local tax regulations, and commute patterns fluctuate by neighborhood.
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Cost of Living Comparison: San Francisco, CA vs Seattle, WA
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between San Francisco, CA (overall index 190) and Seattle, WA (overall index 155). San Francisco, CA is estimated to be 35% more expensive overall than Seattle, WA. Use this data to plan your monthly budget and compare housing, transit, utility, and grocery expenses.