San Francisco vs Milan: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing San Francisco (United States) and Milan (Italy) reveals a cost-of-living index of 94.1 in San Francisco versus 75.8 in Milan (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Milan is 19.4% more affordable than San Francisco.

Metrological Indicator San Francisco (United States) Milan (Italy)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 94.1 75.8
Rent Index 87 52.4
Groceries Index 97.6 65.1
Restaurant Price Index 90.7 72.9
Local Purchasing Power Index 125.4 83.1
1-Bed Apartment in City Center $3,289 €1,560
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal $23.30 €20.80
Monthly Public Transit Pass $101.80 €40.56
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) $207 €213.20
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 53.1/100 · Health 78.5/100 Safety 46.2/100 · Health 74.8/100

Is San Francisco more expensive than Milan?

San Francisco has a higher overall cost-of-living index (94.1) compared to Milan (75.8), representing an index differential of 18.3 points (19.4% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between San Francisco and Milan?

In San Francisco, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages $3,289/month (Rent Index: 87), whereas in Milan it averages €1,560/month (Rent Index: 52.4).

→ San Francisco Full Cost Report → Milan Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in San Francisco

The cost of living in San Francisco, United States is indexed at 94.1 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in San Francisco are defined by a Rent Index of 87. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about $3,289 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In San Francisco, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages $23.30, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around $6.10. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately $101.80, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging $207 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, San Francisco secures a safety index rating of 53.1/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 86.7/100, healthcare standard scores 78.5/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 98.4 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: SAN FRANCISCO-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Milan

The cost of living in Milan, Italy is indexed at 75.8 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Milan are defined by a Rent Index of 52.4. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €1,560 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Milan, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €20.80, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €1.87. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €40.56, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €213.20 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Milan secures a safety index rating of 46.2/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 85.4/100, healthcare standard scores 74.8/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 92.5 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: MILAN-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED