San Francisco vs Seattle: Which City is Right for You? Comparing Real Estate, Cost of Living, Culture, and More

You might be considering an apartment in Seattle or a house in San Francisco, as both cities share many similarities, from thriving tech industries to a love for outdoor recreation. San Francisco offers a more fast-paced, cosmopolitan lifestyle with its iconic landmarks, while Seattle provides a more laid-back atmosphere, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the scenic hills of San Francisco or the waterfront views of Seattle, choosing the right city is an important decision.

From real estate prices and job prospects to cost of living and cultural experiences, there’s much to evaluate. In this Redfin article, we’ll break down the key differences to help you decide which city is the best fit for your lifestyle and career goals.

Housing in San Francisco vs Seattle

Housing in San Francisco

San Francisco’s housing market is known for its high prices and competitive market. From luxury condos in SoMa to historic Victorian homes in the Mission, the city offers a range of urban living options. Space is limited, especially in central areas, and prices reflect the high demand for real estate. San Francisco’s iconic neighborhoods are highly sought after, making it one of the most expensive cities in the U.S. for both buyers and renters.

• Median home cost: The median home sale price in San Francisco is around $1.3 million, with certain neighborhoods like Pacific Heights commanding even higher prices.
• Average rental cost: The average rent for an apartment in San Francisco is about $3,540 per month, with prices varying based on proximity to downtown.

Housing in Seattle

Seattle’s housing market, while still expensive, offers more affordability compared to San Francisco. Buyers can choose from waterfront condos in neighborhoods like Belltown to charming single-family homes in areas like Queen Anne or Ballard. Seattle’s real estate market is competitive, particularly in tech-driven Seattle neighborhoods, but still provides more space and slightly lower prices than San Francisco.

• Median home cost: The median home sale price in Seattle is around $845,000, offering more value compared to San Francisco, especially in suburban areas.
• Average rental cost: Renting an apartment in Seattle averages around $2,311 per month, with higher prices in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and lower prices in surrounding areas.

Cost of living in San Francisco vs Seattle

The overall cost of living in San Francisco is about 14% higher than in Seattle, with differences in housing, utilities, and lifestyle costs contributing to the gap.

1. Utilities

Utilities in San Francisco are around 31% higher than in Seattle. San Francisco’s older infrastructure and its hilly terrain lead to increased energy costs, especially for heating and cooling. Meanwhile, Seattle’s temperate climate and more energy-efficient infrastructure help keep utility bills lower.

2. Groceries

Groceries in San Francisco are roughly 7% more expensive than in Seattle. Both cities rely heavily on imported goods, but Seattle’s proximity to local agricultural regions in Washington helps to keep grocery prices more affordable, while San Francisco’s distance from agricultural hubs contributes to slightly higher costs.

3. Transportation

Transportation costs in San Francisco are about 7% higher than in Seattle. San Francisco’s BART and Muni systems, while extensive, can be expensive, and the cost of parking is notably higher. Seattle, although still expanding its public transit system, offers more affordable options, making commuting less costly.

4. Healthcare

Healthcare costs in San Francisco are approximately 8% lower than in Seattle. While San Francisco has a larger population and higher demand for specialized medical services, Seattle’s healthcare system tends to be more expensive, likely due to higher service costs and a different pricing structure.

5. Lifestyle

Lifestyle expenses in San Francisco are around 2% higher than in Seattle. San Francisco’s global status and high living costs drive up prices for dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences, while Seattle offers similar amenities at a more accessible price point.

What locals say about living in San Francisco

“I love San Francisco because it’s of course a big city with all that offers, but also has so much opportunity to connect with nature: we’re right on the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by redwood forests to the north and south, the Sacramento River Delta just east of us, and the epic Sierra Nevada Mountains just a few hours away!” – San Francisco local, Cliff Hodges, Adventure Out LLC, SF’s premiere outdoor adventure guide

“San Francisco is a city by the bay, offering stunning views, diverse culture, and a quirky, artistic spirit. I love walking its hills, capturing its beauty through photography. From the fun-filled Bay to Breakers race to its welcoming, creative community, it’s the people—not just the weather—that make this city home.” – San Francisco local, Sheila Ash, owner, Noe’s Nest: Bed And Breakfast

“San Francisco is where innovation and energy come to life—it’s in the air here. That’s one of the reasons why we love it as our home base. We specialize in events, and it’s no surprise that many of the industry’s firsts and those “wow, I’ve never seen anything like that!” moments often happen right here in SF. Being part of that dynamic ecosystem is truly thrilling.” – San Francisco local, Colson Griffith, Founder, The Vanity Portrait Studio

“Until just a few years before gold was discovered in 1848, San Francisco was one of the most remote and inaccessible places on the planet. San Francisco is a stunningly beautiful city with a shockingly rich history considering how brief its history is. And it stays young by always reinventing itself.”– San Francisco local, Gary Kamiya

“The Haas-Lilienthal House offers a rare chance to explore a meticulously preserved Queen Anne Victorian mansion. Built in 1886, this 11,500-square-foot, five-story gem is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is San Francisco Landmark #69. Honored as a National Treasure in 2012, it’s a must-see for history and architecture lovers.” – San Francisco local, Josh Farenbaugh, Haas-Lilienthal House

“We love San Francisco for its fog, history, and unmatched spirit—where a costume in July is just part of the charm. A nighttime ride on the Powell-Hyde Cable Car offers stunning city views, ending with an Irish Coffee at The Buena Vista and breathtaking sights from Aquatic Park. For a hidden gem, visit the free San Francisco Railway Museum near the Ferry Building to uncover the city’s transit history.” – San Francisco local, Cecilia Romero, Miss 7×7

“House of prime rib is a quintessential San Francisco experience. For over 75 years they’ve been making the same incredible dinners that hit the spot any day of the week. Absolutely worth the hype.” – San Francisco local, Harrison Boyd, Harrison Boyd Photography

“I love SF because I never stop discovering magical little corners of it. Practically every neighborhood has a secret garden, staircase, or mini-park that even many of the residents don’t know about. I never get bored living in this inspiring city.” – San Francisco local, Maria Davis, St. Mary’s Pub

“Coit Tower has been a San Francisco landmark for decades, but the true hidden gems are the murals inside. Created in 1934 by multiple artists, these vibrant paintings depict themes of banned literature, crime, and political ideas once considered controversial. Now, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past for future generations to admire.” – San Francisco local, Greg Guerrazzi, Wine Country Trekking 

“We love San Francisco for its breathtaking views, rich history, and vibrant culture—but nothing compares to experiencing its Chinatown, the oldest in North America, during the Chinese New Year Parade. As the largest celebration outside Asia, the Chinese New Year Parade fills the streets with glowing lanterns, lion dances, and firecrackers. A hidden gem is the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, where fresh cookies are made. Whether enjoying the parade, tea shops, or dim sum, San Francisco beautifully blends tradition with modern life.” – San Francisco local, William Gee, San Francisco Chinese New Year Festival & Parade, San Francisco Chinese Chamber of Commerce

“As a family photographer, I love exploring the hidden gems in San Francisco. Two places that come to mind are Baker Beach and Kirby Cove! Baker beach has a stunning, iconic view of the Golden Gate. If you venture over the bridge, make sure to stop at Kirby Cove for a beautiful view of SF from the other side of the bay. If you hike around, you might even get lucky enough to stumble upon the tree swing!”– San Francisco local, Jenn Chen Photo

“We love San Francisco for its abundance of free, outdoor events that can be enjoyed year-round, with stunning backdrops like the Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate Bridge. One favorite is the Annual North Beach Festival, the country’s first Arts and Crafts festival, now in its 71st year. We also enjoy the Outer Sunset Farmers Market, where top chefs and artisans showcase their talents. The city is full of small businesses and local creativity, making it a truly special place.” – San Francisco local, Sunset Mercantile

What locals say about living in Seattle

“My favorite thing to do in Seattle is visit the Farmers Market in Ballard. It’s a great place to explore, with locally sourced products like fresh produce, Skagit Valley flowers, and locally baked bread. These markets not only support local vendors but also turn grocery runs into community events, offering the freshest products you won’t find elsewhere.” – Seattle local, Chris Reis, Pacific Northwest Residences

“The number one piece of advice I give to people visiting Seattle is to take a day or two to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Just an hour and a half north of downtown Seattle, Anacortes offers a charming small-town escape with quaint beaches and stunning scenery. For the full PNW experience, I recommend a whale-watching tour through the San Juan Islands for unforgettable wildlife encounters and breathtaking views of the mountains.” – Seattle local, Faith McKeen, Blue Kingdom Tours

“The Punk Rock Flea Market is Seattle’s offbeat shopping adventure, held four times a year in unexpected locations like abandoned strip malls and bowling alleys. For three days, it offers a unique mix of bargains, live music, hot food, and cold drinks. Since 2006, it’s been a staple of the Pacific Northwest’s DIY culture, and it still only costs $1 to enter!” – Seattle local, Joshua Okrent, Punk Rock Flea Market

“Seattle is only 90 minutes away from the gateway to the San Juan Islands – one of the world’s top destinations for sea kayaking, experiencing the nighttime glow of bioluminescence, and orcas in the wild.” – Seattle local, Tom Murphy, owner/operator of Outdoor Odysseys Sea Kayaking

“Seattle has a unique magic with its blend of city lights, mountain views, and creative energy. Whether you’re exploring Pike Place Market, admiring Chihuly glass, or taking in the skyline from Gas Works Park at night, there’s always something breathtaking to see. And of course, no visit is complete without checking out the quirky Gum Wall.” – Seattle local, Face Paint Seattle

“I love Seattle for its cultural richness, offering everything from outdoor sports to amazing local food and beer. My favorite thing to do is restaurant and brewery hopping, exploring delicious food and award-winning beers. With so many great neighborhoods, it’s easy to check out multiple spots and get a real taste of the city as you explore.” – Seattle local, Jake Bassett, Co-Founder, Beer Fridge

“A fun fact about Seattle is that many of the city’s Farmers Markets, like the Ballard and University District Markets, are consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. One of my favorite hidden gems is the Magnolia Farmers Market, nestled in a charming part of the city. It’s a quaint market offering the best local produce and is always worth a visit on a summer Saturday morning.” – Seattle local, Megan Janes, Founder and Owner, Seattle Pops

“My favorite thing to do in Seattle is attend live music events produced by Festival of Friends (FoF) Events. With a mission to foster community among recreational musicians, FoF makes it easy and fun to be part of a band again as a busy adult, without the hassle of organizing everything yourself.” – Seattle local, Tom Tafelsky, Founder, Festival of Friends Events

“As an event planner, I see Seattle as a treasure trove of amazing talent! From talented actors and musical revues to magicians, costumed characters, caricaturists, face painters, henna artists, emcees, photographers, videographers, puppeteers, decor designers, fabulous bakers, and more, the list of talented individuals here is endless.” – Seattle local, Pam McHardy, Founder & President, Square One Events

“When it comes to expressing personal style in your dream home, there’s no better way than with art from local artists. A hidden gem in Seattle is the Vermillion Art Gallery & Bar—it feels like an art opening every night! You can enjoy a show, mingle with local artists, and enjoy tasty refreshments in a charming, historic setting.” – Seattle local, Diana Adams, Vermillion Art Gallery & Bar

“Our favorite place in Seattle is our own studio, Wicked Rae’s—not because we built it, but because of what happens inside. Here, people shed their invisible armor, rediscover play, and reconnect with themselves and others. Whether it’s a toddler’s first sensory adventure, a couple’s date night, or a nurse finding relief, the magic is in the laughter and the freedom to create.”– Seattle local, Julie & Oakley Rae McVey, Wicked Rae’s

“I tell my tour guests that it is the honor of my life being a part of the Pike Place Market community and I mean it! When I walk down Pike Place I feel like the opening of Beauty and the Beast where Belle is waving to the butcher and the baker and I know I’m comparing my life to a Disney cartoon but that is literally what it is like.” – Seattle local, Heather Refvem, Director of Operations, Savor Seattle Food Tours

San Francisco vs Seattle in size and population: A tale of two West Coast cities

San Francisco and Seattle are iconic West Coast cities, but they differ greatly in how they utilize space. San Francisco covers just 47 square miles with a population of about 874,000, resulting in a highly dense, fast-paced environment defined by steep hills and vertical living. In contrast, Seattle spans 142 square miles with a population of over 737,000, offering a more spread-out feel while maintaining an urban atmosphere, especially around its waterfront and downtown areas. San Francisco’s compact layout drives its vibrant, bustling pace, while Seattle’s larger area and integration of parks and nature create a more balanced blend of urban living and open space.

Weather and climate in San Francisco vs Seattle

San Francisco’s climate and Seattle’s climate both benefit from mild, temperate seasons, though San Francisco enjoys more sunshine and drier summers due to its Mediterranean climate. San Francisco experiences cool, foggy mornings in the summer and wet winters, while Seattle is known for its frequent rainfall throughout the year, especially in the fall and winter. Seattle’s summers are pleasant and dry, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Both cities avoid extreme weather, but San Francisco faces earthquake risks due to the San Andreas Fault, while Seattle experiences occasional windstorms and heavy rain.

The job market in San Francisco vs Seattle

San Francisco: A global leader in tech and innovation

San Francisco’s job market is dominated by the tech industry, with Silicon Valley driving the city’s robust economy. With an employment rate of around 66% and a median household income of $127,000, San Francisco offers high earning potential, particularly in tech. The average hourly wage is $46.86, reflecting the city’s expensive cost of living. Major companies like Salesforce, Uber, and Google lead the way in job creation, making San Francisco a global hub for innovation and startups. Other industries, such as healthcare, finance, and education, also offer solid job prospects in the Bay Area.

Seattle: A thriving tech and aerospace hub

Seattle’s economy is also tech-driven, with major employers like Amazon and Microsoft anchoring the job market. The employment rate in Seattle is around 72%, with a median household income of $121,000. The average hourly wage is $41.60, which, while lower than San Francisco, is competitive given Seattle’s lower cost of living. In addition to tech, Seattle is a major player in the aerospace industry, with Boeing as a key employer. The healthcare and biotech sectors are also expanding, with companies like Providence Health and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center contributing to job growth.

Transportation in San Francisco vs Seattle

San Francisco: Dense and transit-oriented

San Francisco boasts an extensive public transportation network, including Muni buses, light rail, and the BART system, which connects the city to the broader Bay Area. The city’s compact layout makes it highly walkable, though steep hills present challenges for some. Biking is popular, with numerous bike lanes and the Ford GoBike program making cycling easier. Driving in San Francisco is difficult due to congestion and limited parking, which makes public transit a favored option for many residents.

• Walk Score: 89
• Bike Score: 72
• Transit Score: 77

Seattle: Expanding transit with bike-friendly routes

Seattle’s transportation system is centered around buses, light rail (Link), and ferries, providing residents with multiple ways to navigate the city and surrounding areas. The city’s bike-friendly infrastructure is growing, with more protected bike lanes and the LimeBike program. Driving is more feasible in Seattle compared to San Francisco, though traffic congestion can be significant during rush hours. The city’s walkability is highest in downtown areas, but the spread-out nature of some neighborhoods makes cars or public transit necessary.

• Walk Score: 74
• Bike Score: 71
• Transit Score: 60

Travel in and out of San Francisco vs Seattle

Both cities are major West Coast travel hubs, with Seattle offering more connections to Alaska and Canada, while San Francisco has stronger international links.

• San Francisco: San Francisco International Airport (SFO), BART, Caltrain, Amtrak, ferries, Greyhound, and Megabus.
• Seattle: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Link light rail, Amtrak, ferries, Greyhound, and Megabus.

Lifestyle and things to do in San Francisco vs Seattle

A day in the life of a San Franciscan

Life in San Francisco is fast-paced and dynamic, with each neighborhood offering a unique experience. A typical day might begin with a coffee from a local café in the Mission District, followed by a walk to work or a commute via BART. Weekends are for exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, enjoying the vibrant food scene, or hiking in nearby areas like Marin Headlands. For outdoor enthusiasts, a bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge or a stroll through Golden Gate Park is a favorite pastime.

Top things to do in San Francisco:

• Walk through Golden Gate Park
• Visit Alcatraz Island
• Take a ride on a historic cable car
• Explore the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
• Watch a Giants game at Oracle Park

Google Street View of Alcatraz Island

San Francisco parks and green gems:

• Lunch at Dolores Park
• Hike Lands End Trail
• Explore the Presidio
• Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge
• Visit the Japanese Tea Garden

Google Street View of Lands End Trail

San Francisco tourist attractions:

• Golden Gate Bridge
• Alcatraz Island
• Fisherman’s Wharf
• Coit Tower
• Chinatown

A day in the life of a Seattleite

Living in Seattle offers a mix of urban living and access to nature. A day might start with a cup of coffee from a local roastery before hopping on the Link light rail or biking to work. Weekends are spent exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods, hiking in nearby mountains, or taking a ferry to the San Juan Islands. Seattle’s music scene, fresh seafood, and outdoor lifestyle draw residents and visitors alike, making it a city for both culture and nature lovers.

Top things to do in Seattle:

• Visit Pike Place Market
• Explore the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
• Take in views from the Space Needle
• Attend a show at The Crocodile
• Visit the Seattle Aquarium

Google Street View of the Space Needle

Seattle parks and green gems:

• Walk along Green Lake Park
• Hike in Discovery Park
• Bike the Burke-Gilman Trail
• Paddle on Lake Union
• Picnic at Gas Works Park

Google Street View of Discovery Park

Seattle tourist attractions:

• Space Needle
• Chihuly Garden and Glass
• Seattle Art Museum
• Pike Place Market
• Ballard Locks

Food and culture in San Francisco vs Seattle

San Francisco: A foodie’s paradise with global flavors

San Francisco’s food scene is legendary for its innovation and diverse offerings, from fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf to fusion cuisine in the Mission District. The city’s access to fresh, local ingredients from nearby farms makes it a haven for farm-to-table dining. Signature dishes like sourdough bread, Dungeness crab, and Mission-style burritos are a must-try, while the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants continue to push culinary boundaries. San Francisco’s cultural landscape is equally vibrant, with renowned institutions like the San Francisco Symphony and the de Young Museum contributing to its rich arts scene. Annual events such as the Folsom Street Fair and Outside Lands Music Festival showcase the city’s eclectic spirit.

Seattle: Coffee, seafood, and a thriving arts scene

Seattle’s food culture is a reflection of its Pacific Northwest roots, with a focus on fresh seafood, coffee, and innovative cuisine. Pike Place Market remains the heart of the city’s culinary scene, offering everything from fresh fish to artisanal cheeses and local produce. Signature dishes include salmon, oysters, and Dungeness crab, while Seattle’s coffee culture, anchored by iconic brands like Starbucks and an array of independent roasters, is world-famous. Beyond food, Seattle is a cultural hub, home to a thriving music scene, particularly grunge, and notable institutions like the Seattle Art Museum and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). Events like Bumbershoot and the Seattle International Film Festival highlight the city’s artistic diversity.

Sports scene in San Francisco vs Seattle

San Francisco: A city of champions

San Francisco’s sports scene is home to several championship-winning teams across major professional leagues. The San Francisco Giants have a loyal following in baseball, with Oracle Park offering picturesque views of the Bay during games. The Golden State Warriors, playing just across the Bay, have brought numerous NBA titles home in recent years, making basketball a central part of the city’s sports culture. The San Francisco 49ers, one of the NFL’s most successful franchises, play just outside the city in Santa Clara, continuing to draw huge crowds. 

Seattle: Passionate fans and iconic teams

Seattle’s sports scene thrives on the passion of its fans. The Seattle Seahawks enjoy one of the loudest fan bases in the NFL, with games at Lumen Field known for their electric atmosphere. Soccer also has a strong presence, with the Seattle Sounders FC drawing large crowds to the same venue. Baseball fans flock to T-Mobile Park to watch the Seattle Mariners, while the Seattle Kraken have quickly established a devoted following in the NHL. With its mix of professional teams and die-hard fans, Seattle’s sports culture is a central part of the city’s identity.