Cost of Living in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco's cost of living index is 179 — 79% more expensive than the national average. California has a state income tax and a statewide COL index of 142.
COL Index
179
100 = national avg
Monthly Budget
$8,950
vs $5,000 national
Population
0.9M
Metro area
State Tax
Yes
California
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Estimated monthly costs in San Francisco vs national average for a typical household.
| Category | National Avg | San Francisco | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,650 | $3,605 | +$1,955 |
| Groceries | $650 | $1,061 | +$411 |
| Transportation | $800 | $1,369 | +$569 |
| Healthcare | $400 | $621 | +$221 |
| Utilities | $300 | $537 | +$237 |
| Other | $1,200 | $1,958 | +$758 |
| Total | $5,000 | $8,950 | +$3,950 |
Salary Equivalent
To maintain the same standard of living in San Francisco, a national-average salary translates to:
$50,000 nationally
$89,500
$75,000 nationally
$134,250
$100,000 nationally
$179,000
$150,000 nationally
$268,500