Is San Francisco more expensive than Vancouver?

San Francisco is 39.5% more expensive than Vancouver overall. Rent is 84.4% higher, groceries 32.1% more expensive, and restaurants 34.5% more expensive.

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

Vancouver has a purchasing power index of 121.3 while San Francisco has 150.4 (NYC = 100). San Francisco offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇨🇦 Vancouver vs 🇺🇸 San Francisco

2026

San Francisco is 39.5% more expensive

Category	🇨🇦 Vancouver	🇺🇸 San Francisco	Difference
Cost of Living	68.6	95.7	+39.5%
Rent	44.1	81.3	+84.4%
Groceries	80.8	106.7	+32.1%
Restaurants	68.4	92.0	+34.5%
Purchasing Power	121.3	150.4	+24.0%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

Add your salary for a personalized comparison

See exact tax differences, net income, and savings potential.

80k Salary 100k Salary

Explore

🇨🇦 Cost of Living in Vancouver

Explore

🇺🇸 Cost of Living in San Francisco

Explore

🇨🇦 Should I Move to Vancouver?

Explore

🇺🇸 Should I Move to San Francisco?

Tax Calculators

See detailed income tax brackets and net salary calculations for Vancouver and San Francisco.

🇨🇦 Canada Tax Calculator

Income tax rates, brackets & net salary