San Francisco vs Amsterdam

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Amsterdam is roughly 12% more affordable than San Francisco (index 78 vs 89, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Amsterdam
More affordable overall
12% cheaper than San Francisco · Cost index: 78 vs 89

Head-to-Head Stats

89Cost Index78
8,160Median Income /mo3,900
45Safety Index72
37Income Tax %37
150Internet (Mbps)95
450Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

San FranciscoCategoryAmsterdam
$3,024/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
39% ← cheaper
$1,850/month
$5.11/liter
Meal for One
78% ← cheaper
$1.1/liter
$25/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
36% ← cheaper
$16/meal
$98/month
Monthly Transit Pass
29% cheaper →
$138/month
$389/month
Utilities (Monthly)
51% ← cheaper
$190/month
$150/visit
Doctor Visit
20% ← cheaper
$120/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

San Francisco

Internet150 Mbps
Coworking$450/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability87/100

Amsterdam

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability92/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is San Francisco cheaper than Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is cheaper than San Francisco. Amsterdam has a cost of living index of 78/100 compared to 89/100 for San Francisco, making it roughly 12% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Amsterdam than San Francisco?

Amsterdam is approximately 12% cheaper than San Francisco based on cost index scores (78 vs 89, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in San Francisco could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,629/month in Amsterdam.

What is the rent comparison between San Francisco and Amsterdam?

In San Francisco, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $3,024/month. In Amsterdam, the equivalent is around $1,850/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — San Francisco or Amsterdam?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. San Francisco offers 150 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$450/month. Amsterdam offers 95 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Amsterdam has a cost advantage of 12%.

What is the average income in San Francisco vs Amsterdam?

The median net monthly salary in San Francisco is approximately $8,160 USD, compared to $3,900 USD in Amsterdam.

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