Is Seattle more expensive than San Francisco?

Seattle is 9.8% cheaper than San Francisco overall. Rent is 22.9% lower, groceries 4.7% more expensive, and restaurants 6.6% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, San Francisco or Seattle?

San Francisco has a purchasing power index of 153.0 while Seattle has 157.2 (NYC = 100). Seattle offers better purchasing power.

San Francisco vs Seattle: Seattle is 9.8% cheaper, rent 23% lower (2026)

Category	🇺🇸 San Francisco	🇺🇸 Seattle	Difference
Cost of Living	84.1	75.9	-9.8%
Rent	75.9	58.5	-22.9%
Groceries	92.3	96.6	+4.7%
Restaurants	102.6	95.8	-6.6%
Purchasing Power	153.0	157.2	+2.7%

Data from March – October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

Explore

🇺🇸 Cost of Living in San Francisco

Explore

🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Seattle

Explore

🇺🇸 Should I Move to San Francisco?

Explore

🇺🇸 Should I Move to Seattle?

🇺🇸 San Francisco vs 🇺🇸 Seattle

Add your salary for a personalized comparison