Cost of Living: Seattle, WA vs San Francisco, CA
Analyzing index metrics between Seattle and San Francisco relative to the US average baseline (100). San Francisco is estimated to be 35% more expensive overall than Seattle. Rental housing in San Francisco runs about 31% higher than in Seattle.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | Seattle, WA | San Francisco, CA | Difference for San Francisco |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 155 | 190 | +23% |
| Rent Index | 175 | 230 | +31% |
| Home Price Index | 190 | 260 | +37% |
| Utilities | 115 | 120 | +4% |
| Groceries | 132 | 140 | +6% |
| Transportation | 130 | 150 | +15% |
| Healthcare | 120 | 125 | +4% |
Seattle, WA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Seattle.
San Francisco, CA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in San Francisco.
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: Seattle, WA vs San Francisco, CA
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Seattle, WA (overall index 155) and San Francisco, CA (overall index 190). 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.