Los Angeles vs San Francisco: Cost of Living

Last updated 2026-06-12 · MovePlan Editorial Team

Los Angeles is about 16% cheaper overall. Here is how Los Angeles and San Francisco compare on rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare.

• Los Angeles cost-of-living index: 150 vs 100
• San Francisco cost-of-living index: 178 vs 100
• Los Angeles median 2BR rent: $3,400/mo
• San Francisco median 2BR rent: $4,200/mo

Build my free moving plan