Moving from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA
Thinking about moving from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA? Overall prices are 3% lower in Seattle, WA than in San Francisco, CA, making Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA to maintain your standard of living from San Francisco, CA?
Equivalent salary in Seattle, WA
$72,468
You could earn $2,532 less (3% 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 17% lower in Seattle ($1,998) than in San Francisco ($2,419). The typical home value is 34% lower in Seattle ($912,100) 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 14% lower in Seattle ($121,984) 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 Seattle (0.00%) than in San Francisco (13.30%). State sales tax is 10% lower in Seattle (6.50%) 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 Seattle, WA cheaper than San Francisco, CA?
Yes. Seattle, WA has an overall cost index of 114.0 versus 118.0 in San Francisco, CA — about 3% cheaper overall.
How much is rent in Seattle, WA?
The median gross rent in Seattle is $1,998 per month (US Census ACS).
What salary do you need in Seattle, WA?
Median household income in Seattle is $121,984. Use the salary calculator on this page to convert your current San Francisco pay into the equivalent you'd need in Seattle.