San Francisco, CA vs Irvine, CA: 267 vs 256

$2,419/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$2,893/mo ↑ 20%

$141,446/yr ↑ 9%

Median Income

$129,647/yr ↓ 8%

$1,380,500 ↑ 24%

Home Value

$1,115,400 ↓ 19%

$2,620/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$2,904/mo ↑ 11%

836,321

Population

308,160

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Irvine, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 256 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $474/month cheaper in San Francisco, saving renters about $5,688/year.

Median household income is $11,799/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $1,115,400 in Irvine.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Irvine — common questions

Is San Francisco or Irvine cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Irvine is cheaper to live in with an index of 256 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Irvine?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Irvine it's $2,893/month — a difference of $474/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Irvine?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $129,647 in Irvine. Median household income is $11,799/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 Irvine?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/mo, while Irvine has a cost index of 256 with rent of $2,893/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

San Francisco

Irvine

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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