Lifestyle Intelligence

Cost of Living · San Francisco vs New York

Compare rent pressure, discretionary drift, and monthly budgets across two sovereign hubs before you sign the relocation package.

San Francisco

Cost-of-living

Rent index

Estimated median professional income: $78,500

New York

Cost-of-living

Rent index

Estimated median professional income: $78,500

Spread

Index delta

+22.1

San Francisco is 22 points more expensive on our deterministic index.

San Francisco

The epicenter of global technology, offering the highest base salaries adjusted for a fiercely competitive housing market.

Reference monthly net: $5,247

Housing pressure

35% of take-home pay devoted to housing.

New York

The global financial capital, characterized by high compensation but significant cost of living and local tax burdens.

Reference monthly net: $5,247

Housing pressure

35% of take-home pay devoted to housing.

Monthly allocation

Budget blueprint

San Francisco

Monthly net $5,247

Housing$1,836

Essentials$1,574

Lifestyle$1,049

Savings$787

New York

Monthly net $5,247

Housing$1,836

Essentials$1,574

Lifestyle$1,049

Savings$787

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Frequently asked

Is San Francisco more expensive than New York?+

San Francisco posts a cost-of-living score of 96 with rent at 98. New York sits at 73 / 64. The spread is driven by housing (34.1 points) and imported services.

What income do I need to maintain lifestyle parity?+

Using a reference salary of $78,500, the take-home pay differs by $0. Adjust offers upward if relocating to the more expensive hub.

How much of my income should go to rent?+

Allocating 30% of monthly net is sustainable in New York, while San Francisco may require closer to 35% unless allowances are provided.