Moving from San Francisco, CA to Austin, TX
Thinking about moving from San Francisco, CA to Austin, TX? Overall prices are 16% lower in Austin, TX than in San Francisco, CA, making Austin, TX the more affordable of the two. This guide breaks down housing, income, taxes, and climate using the latest US government data so you can plan your relocation budget with realistic numbers rather than guesswork.
Salary calculator
How much would you need to earn in Austin, TX to maintain your standard of living from San Francisco, CA?
Equivalent salary in Austin, TX
$62,801
You could earn $12,199 less (16% lower) and break even.
Based on BEA Regional Price Parity (cost index) for each city's metro area. A rough estimate of overall purchasing power, not tax or take-home pay.
Housing
Median rent is 32% lower in Austin ($1,655) than in San Francisco ($2,419). The typical home value is 63% lower in Austin ($512,700) than in San Francisco ($1,380,500). Factor in moving costs, deposits, and the gap between advertised and median rents when you set a housing budget.
Income & jobs
Median household income is 35% lower in Austin ($91,461) than in San Francisco ($141,446). After adjusting pay for local prices, a typical paycheck goes further in San Francisco, CA.
Taxes
The top state income tax rate is 100% lower in Austin (0.00%) than in San Francisco (13.30%). State sales tax is 14% lower in Austin (6.25%) than in San Francisco (7.25%). Remember that local taxes and your specific bracket change the real picture (Tax Foundation, 2024).
Climate & air quality
Air-quality figures for this route are still being compiled.
Frequently asked questions
Is Austin, TX cheaper than San Francisco, CA?
Yes. Austin, TX has an overall cost index of 98.8 versus 118.0 in San Francisco, CA — about 16% cheaper overall.
How much is rent in Austin, TX?
The median gross rent in Austin is $1,655 per month (US Census ACS).
What salary do you need in Austin, TX?
Median household income in Austin is $91,461. Use the salary calculator on this page to convert your current San Francisco pay into the equivalent you'd need in Austin.