If you’re thinking about relocating to California, you may be interested in finding apartments in San Diego, CA or rentals in San Francisco, CA. Both cities offer distinct lifestyles and strong job markets, but their costs of living and atmospheres differ significantly. Whether you’re considering San Diego’s beaches and laid-back vibe or San Francisco’s tech-driven energy, understanding each city’s offerings is crucial.
From climate to job opportunities and more, there’s much to consider. This Redfin article breaks down the key differences to help you decide which city is the right fit for you.
San Diego vs San Francisco: Size and Population
San Diego and San Francisco are iconic California cities, but they differ in how they utilize space and accommodate their populations. San Diego sprawls across 372 square miles, featuring a mix of suburbs, coastal communities, and urban hubs. In contrast, San Francisco is more compact, covering just 47 square miles, making it one of the densest cities in the U.S.
San Diego has a population of approximately 1.4 million, with a population density of around 4,300 people per square mile. Its larger size allows for a more relaxed, spacious feel, with many residents living near beaches or parks. San Francisco, despite its smaller area, is home to about 874,000 people, resulting in a much higher population density of approximately 17,300 people per square mile. San Francisco’s compact layout, vertical terrain, and iconic hills create a vibrant, bustling atmosphere, especially in its dense downtown areas.
Cost of Living in San Diego vs San Francisco
In general, the cost of living in San Diego is about 18% lower than in San Francisco. While both cities are known for their high costs, San Francisco’s limited housing, high demand, and tech industry significantly raise everyday expenses compared to the more laid-back, spread-out nature of San Diego.
1. Utilities
San Diego’s utilities are roughly 23% cheaper than in San Francisco. The city’s mild climate requires less energy for heating and cooling throughout the year. In contrast, San Francisco’s older buildings and cooler temperatures result in higher utility costs.
2. Groceries
Grocery prices in San Diego are approximately 7% lower than in San Francisco. San Diego’s proximity to agricultural areas allows for fresher, more affordable produce, while San Francisco’s reliance on imported goods leads to higher grocery costs.
3. Transportation
Transportation costs in San Francisco are about 4% higher than in San Diego. San Francisco’s dense urban setting results in high parking fees and reliance on public transit, increasing costs. San Diego’s car-centric culture balances costs with lower parking expenses but slightly higher fuel consumption.
4. Healthcare
Healthcare expenses in San Diego are approximately 21% lower than in San Francisco. San Francisco’s expensive medical real estate and demand for specialized services contribute to higher healthcare costs. San Diego’s more accessible healthcare options help keep expenses down.
5. Lifestyle
San Diego’s lifestyle costs are roughly 6% lower than San Francisco’s. While both cities offer diverse entertainment and cultural activities, San Francisco’s dense living conditions and premium real estate drive up costs for dining, fitness, and events. San Diego, with its spacious, relaxed setting, offers slightly more affordable lifestyle options.
Housing in San Diego vs San Francisco
Housing in San Diego
San Diego’s housing market features a mix of beachfront properties, suburban homes, and urban apartments. The city’s layout is spread out, with neighborhoods in San Diego offering a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere compared to larger cities. From luxury high-rises in downtown San Diego to coastal bungalows in areas like La Jolla and Pacific Beach. Outdoor living is a significant aspect of San Diego’s lifestyle, with homes often featuring patios, backyards, and large windows to enjoy the city’s pleasant weather year-round.
Housing options:
- Studio Apartment: The average rent for a studio apartment in San Diego is around $2,324 per month, varying by location and proximity to the coast.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment: A one-bedroom apartment in San Diego typically costs around $2,830 per month in popular areas like Little Italy, Hillcrest, or Gaslamp Quarter.
- Median Home Cost: The median home price in San Diego is around $970,000, with a range of single-family homes, condos, and townhouses, particularly in coastal areas.
Housing in San Francisco
San Francisco’s housing market is characterized by density and high demand, driving up prices due to limited space. The city’s unique architecture includes historic Victorian homes, modern high-rise condos, and famous townhomes. Popular neighborhoods in San Francisco like Mission District, SoMa, and Nob Hill offer a mix of modern and traditional living spaces, albeit at a premium price. Due to space constraints, outdoor areas like terraces and rooftop decks often substitute for backyards, especially in central San Francisco.
Housing options:
The Job Market in San Diego vs San Francisco
San Diego: Military, Tourism, and Biotechnology Powerhouse
San Diego boasts a diverse and robust economy, with key sectors including military defense, biotechnology, tourism, and healthcare. The city’s employment rate is around 63%, with a median household income of approximately $106,000, and an average hourly wage of about $36.54. The military, anchored by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, is a major employer in San Diego, significantly contributing to the local economy. The city’s thriving biotech industry, led by companies like Illumina and Pfizer, has established it as a hub for innovation and research. Tourism also plays a vital role, with attractions like the San Diego Zoo and beautiful beaches attracting millions of visitors annually. Major healthcare institutions like Scripps Health and Sharp Healthcare are significant employers, further bolstering the city’s economic vitality.
San Francisco: A Global Tech and Finance Hub
San Francisco’s job market is heavily influenced by its global status as a technology and finance center. The city’s employment rate is around 66%, with a median household income of $127,000, and an average hourly wage of $36.54. The tech sector dominates, with global giants like Google, Salesforce, and Twitter headquartered in the area, along with a thriving startup ecosystem. San Francisco is also a significant player in finance, with institutions like Wells Fargo and Charles Schwab contributing to the city’s economic vitality. The healthcare and biotech industries are also prominent, with companies like Genentech and Kaiser Permanente playing key roles in the local job market. Despite the high cost of living, the city’s opportunities in tech, finance, and healthcare attract top talent from around the world.
Transportation in San Diego vs San Francisco
San Diego relies heavily on cars, with many residents using personal vehicles for commuting due to its expansive layout. Major highways like I-5, I-15, and I-805 connect various parts of the city. While the San Diego Trolley offers public transportation on key routes, and buses serve wider areas, public transit usage is lower compared to denser cities. San Diego’s milder traffic compared to Los Angeles makes driving more manageable, and the city has embraced biking and electric scooters, especially in downtown and beach areas.
In contrast, San Francisco is known for its extensive public transportation system, including BART, Muni buses, streetcars, and iconic cable cars. The city’s hilly terrain and high population density make walking and public transit the preferred modes of travel. Biking is popular as well, particularly with the availability of protected bike lanes in certain areas. Driving in San Francisco can be challenging due to narrow streets, high parking costs, and frequent congestion.
