San Francisco, CA variant. This is a San Francisco, CA-specific version of the Home Affordability Calculator, using pre-defined local figures (tax rates, median home and income values, and typical regional costs). For the full formula, methodology, and FAQ, open the main Home Affordability Calculator.
Affording a home in San Francisco pits the $136,689 median income against a $1,335,000 median price - a price-to-income ratio of 9.8x.
Can you afford San Francisco?
The 28% rule caps housing at $3,189/month on the local median income, supporting roughly $630,749 in price - versus the $1,335,000 San Francisco median.
San Francisco is a stretch on the median income; many buyers need higher earnings, more down, or co-borrowers.
About San Francisco, CA
San Francisco does not levy a personal city income tax on wages, though residents pay California state income tax, among the highest in the nation.
San Francisco is one of the most expensive housing markets in the United States, with very high home prices and rents.
San Francisco's economy is dominated by the technology sector and finance, which drive its exceptionally high cost of living.
Worked example: max price on $136,689
28% of $136,689 ÷ 12 ≈ $3,189/month supports about $630,749 at 6.5% with 20% down - compared with the $1,335,000 median.
Quick reference
- Median home value: $1,335,000
- Median rent: $3,550/mo
- Median household income: $136,689
- Local sales tax: 8.625%
- Effective property tax rate: 0.62%
- Cost of living index: 244 (US avg = 100)
Frequently Asked Questions
What income do I need to buy in San Francisco?
To afford the $1,335,000 median home, you'd typically need well above the $136,689 local median income at current rates.
What is the price-to-income ratio in San Francisco?
About 9.8x (median home ÷ median income).