San FranciscovsVancouver
Overall
💰-23.8%
San Francisco is 23.8%cheaper
Rent
🏠-27.3%
Housing is 27.3% lower
Dining
🍽️-28.6%
Restaurants 28.6% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-23.8%
Food shopping 23.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between San Francisco, United States and Vancouver, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that San Francisco is more affordable than Vancouver by approximately 23.8%. 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 San Francisco are higher than in Vancouver by 38%. A one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco's city center costs around $3,800, while the same in Vancouver is approximately CA$2,600.
Dining out in San Francisco is notably more expensive compared to Vancouver. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $22 in San Francisco versus CA$20 in Vancouver.
Public transportation in San Francisco is more affordable, with monthly passes at $98 compared to CA$131 in Vancouver.
Purchasing power in San Francisco is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Vancouver.
Grocery shopping in San Francisco is more expensive by approximately 31%. 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 Vancouver, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$698. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,724 monthly in San Francisco versus CA$2,443 in Vancouver. 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 Vancouver 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 Vancouver 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
Vancouver
Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Francisco more expensive than Vancouver?
No, San Francisco is approximately 23.8% cheaper than Vancouver. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in San Francisco compared to Vancouver?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 81% of your Vancouver salary when living in San Francisco. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Vancouver, you'd need about $40,385 in San Francisco for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between San Francisco and Vancouver?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 40%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable 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 Vancouver for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for San Francisco vs Vancouver?
In San Francisco, a single person needs approximately $3,578 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $7,724. In Vancouver, these figures are CA$2,798 for singles and CA$5,943 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between San Francisco and Vancouver in 2025 shows significant 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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Find out how much you need to earn in Vancouver to maintain your lifestyle from San Francisco
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