Los AngelesvsSan Francisco
Overall
💰+11.8%
Los Angeles is 11.8%more expensive
Rent
🏠+28.2%
Housing is 28.2% higher
Dining
🍽️+19.5%
Restaurants 19.5% pricier
Groceries
🛒+11.8%
Food shopping 11.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Los Angeles, United States and San Francisco, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2026. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Los Angeles is more expensive than San Francisco by approximately 11.8%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Los Angeles are lower than in San Francisco by 22%. A one-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles's city center costs around $2,886, while the same in San Francisco is approximately $3,376.
Dining out in Los Angeles offers significant savings compared to San Francisco. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $22 in Los Angeles versus $25 in San Francisco.
Public transportation in Los Angeles is more expensive, with monthly passes at $100 compared to $98 in San Francisco.
Grocery shopping in Los Angeles is more affordable by approximately 11%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Los Angeles can expect to spend approximately $736 per month (excluding rent), while in San Francisco, the same lifestyle would cost around $817. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,577 monthly in Los Angeles versus $2,861 in San Francisco. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Los Angeles to San Francisco, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Los Angeles
San Francisco
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Angeles more expensive than San Francisco?
Yes, Los Angeles is approximately 11.8% more expensive than San Francisco overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Los Angeles compared to San Francisco?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your San Francisco salary when living in Los Angeles. For example, if you earn $50,000 in San Francisco, you'd need about $55,882 in Los Angeles for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Los Angeles and San Francisco?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 22%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
San Francisco offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, San Francisco provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Los Angeles if you prioritize cultural experiences, or San Francisco for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Los Angeles vs San Francisco?
In Los Angeles, a single person needs approximately $2,992 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $6,677. In San Francisco, these figures are $3,549 for singles and $7,361 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Los Angeles and San Francisco in 2026 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in San Francisco to maintain your lifestyle from Los Angeles
Calculate Salary EquivalencePlanning Your Move? Get Global Health Insurance
Whether you're moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco or vice versa, SafetyWing provides comprehensive health insurance for expats and digital nomads.
- • Coverage in 180+ countries including United States and United States
- • No home country restrictions
- • Monthly subscription from $45/month, cancel anytime
- • Covers COVID-19 and pre-existing conditions
Trusted by 100,000+ nomads worldwide
Related Comparisons
Stay Updated on Cost of Living Changes
Get monthly updates delivered to your inbox. We update data on the 1st of every month.