San Francisco, CA vs Fresno, CA: 267 vs 101

$2,419/mo ↑ 83%

Median Rent

$1,324/mo ↓ 45%

$141,446/yr ↑ 112%

Median Income

$66,804/yr ↓ 53%

$1,380,500 ↑ 296%

Home Value

$348,500 ↓ 75%

$2,620/mo ↑ 88%

Owner Costs

$1,391/mo ↓ 47%

836,321

Population

543,615

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Fresno, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 101 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,095/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $13,140/year.

Median household income is $74,642/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $348,500 in Fresno.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Fresno — common questions

Is San Francisco or Fresno cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Fresno?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Fresno it's $1,324/month — a difference of $1,095/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Fresno?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $66,804 in Fresno. Median household income is $74,642/year higher in San Francisco.

How do taxes compare between California and California?

Both cities are in California and share the same state tax rates: 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to San Francisco or Fresno?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/mo, while Fresno has a cost index of 101 with rent of $1,324/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

San Francisco

Fresno

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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