San Francisco vs London

Cost of living comparison for 2026. London is roughly 4% more affordable than San Francisco (index 85 vs 89, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

London
More affordable overall
4% cheaper than San Francisco · Cost index: 85 vs 89

Head-to-Head Stats

89Cost Index85
8,160Median Income /mo3,850
45Safety Index70
37Income Tax %27
150Internet (Mbps)72
450Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

San FranciscoCategoryLondon
$3,024/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
7% ← cheaper
$2,800/month
$5.11/liter
Meal for One
56% ← cheaper
$2.25/liter
$25/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
24% ← cheaper
$19/meal
$98/month
Monthly Transit Pass
51% cheaper →
$200/month
$389/month
Utilities (Monthly)
46% ← cheaper
$210/month
$150/visit
Doctor Visit
33% ← cheaper
$100/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

San Francisco

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

London

Internet72 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability82/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is San Francisco cheaper than London?

London is cheaper than San Francisco. London has a cost of living index of 85/100 compared to 89/100 for San Francisco, making it roughly 4% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is London than San Francisco?

London is approximately 4% cheaper than San Francisco based on cost index scores (85 vs 89, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in San Francisco could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,865/month in London.

What is the rent comparison between San Francisco and London?

In San Francisco, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $3,024/month. In London, the equivalent is around $2,800/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. San Francisco offers 150 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$450/month. London offers 72 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. London has a cost advantage of 4%.

What is the average income in San Francisco vs London?

The median net monthly salary in San Francisco is approximately $8,160 USD, compared to $3,850 USD in London.

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