San FranciscovsLos Angeles
Overall
💰-16.2%
San Francisco is 16.2%cheaper
Rent
🏠-27.3%
Housing is 27.3% lower
Dining
🍽️-19.0%
Restaurants 19.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-16.2%
Food shopping 16.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between San Francisco, United States and Los Angeles, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that San Francisco is more affordable than Los Angeles by approximately 16.2%. 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 San Francisco are higher than in Los Angeles by 38%. A one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco's city center costs around $3,800, while the same in Los Angeles is approximately $2,800.
Dining out in San Francisco is notably more expensive compared to Los Angeles. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $22 in San Francisco versus $18 in Los Angeles.
Public transportation in San Francisco is more affordable, with monthly passes at $98 compared to $100 in Los Angeles.
Grocery shopping in San Francisco is more expensive by approximately 19%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in San Francisco can expect to spend approximately $778 per month (excluding rent), while in Los Angeles, the same lifestyle would cost around $659. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,724 monthly in San Francisco versus $2,305 in Los Angeles. 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
San Francisco
Los Angeles
Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Francisco more expensive than Los Angeles?
No, San Francisco is approximately 16.2% cheaper than Los Angeles. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in San Francisco compared to Los Angeles?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 86% of your Los Angeles salary when living in San Francisco. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Los Angeles, you'd need about $43,033 in San Francisco for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between San Francisco and Los Angeles?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 38%, 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 San Francisco if you prioritize earning potential, or Los Angeles for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for San Francisco vs Los Angeles?
In San Francisco, a single person needs approximately $3,578 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $7,724. In Los Angeles, these figures are $2,859 for singles and $6,305 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between San Francisco and Los Angeles in 2025 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.
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