San Diego, CA vs Seattle, WA: 197 vs 196

$2,223/mo ↑ 11%

Median Rent

$1,998/mo ↓ 10%

$104,321/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$121,984/yr ↑ 17%

$848,500 ↓ 7%

Home Value

$912,100 ↑ 7%

$2,308/mo ↑ 4%

Owner Costs

$2,220/mo ↓ 4%

1,385,061

Population

741,440

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Seattle, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 196 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $225/month cheaper in Seattle, saving renters about $2,700/year.

Median household income is $17,663/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $912,100 in Seattle.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Seattle — common questions

Is San Diego or Seattle cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Seattle is cheaper to live in with an index of 196 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Seattle?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Seattle it's $1,998/month — a difference of $225/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Seattle?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $121,984 in Seattle. Median household income is $17,663/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between California and Washington?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or Seattle?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/mo, while Seattle has a cost index of 196 with rent of $1,998/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: San Diego, CA vs Seattle, WA (2026)

San Diego

Seattle

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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