San Francisco, CA vs Dayton, OH: 267 vs 50

$2,419/mo ↑ 179%

Median Rent

$866/mo ↓ 64%

$141,446/yr ↑ 226%

Median Income

$43,454/yr ↓ 69%

$1,380,500 ↑ 1381%

Home Value

$93,200 ↓ 93%

$2,620/mo ↑ 215%

Owner Costs

$833/mo ↓ 68%

836,321

Population

136,741

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Dayton, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 50 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,553/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $18,636/year.

Median household income is $97,992/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $93,200 in Dayton.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Dayton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Dayton — common questions

Is San Francisco or Dayton cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Dayton?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Dayton it's $866/month — a difference of $1,553/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Dayton?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $43,454 in Dayton. Median household income is $97,992/year higher in San Francisco.

How do taxes compare between California and Ohio?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to San Francisco or Dayton?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/mo, while Dayton has a cost index of 50 with rent of $866/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: San Francisco, CA vs Dayton, OH (2026)

San Francisco

Dayton

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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