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Cost of Living Comparison (2026)
San Francisco is 24% cheaper than London
Quick answer
Comparing San Francisco, United States and London, United Kingdom: a moderate single-person monthly budget is approximately $3,500 in San Francisco versus $2,650 in London. San Francisco is roughly 24% cheaper overall. Central 1-bed rent: $3,200/mo (San Francisco) vs $2,200/mo (London). Estimates use World Bank PPP data + national statistics + (where available) item-level price snapshots.
Key facts
| Lifestyle | 🇺🇸 San Francisco | 🇬🇧 London | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $2,450/mo | $1,850/mo | -24% |
| Moderate | $3,500/mo | $2,650/mo | -24% |
| Comfortable | $5,250/mo | $4,000/mo | -24% |
Estimates for a single person. Based on World Bank PPP data and national statistics.
| Category | 🇺🇸 San Francisco | 🇬🇧 London | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (1-bed, center) | $3,200/mo | $2,200/mo | -31% |
| Groceries & Food | $700/mo | $530/mo | -24% |
| Dining Out | $400/mo | $300/mo | -25% |
| Transport | $80/mo | $227/mo | +184% |
| Utilities & Internet | $350/mo | $265/mo | -24% |
| Healthcare | $280/mo | $212/mo | -24% |
| Leisure & Personal | $245/mo | $186/mo | -24% |
Explore more: San Francisco city guide | London city guide | United States | United Kingdom