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.

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.

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