Cost of Living: San Francisco vs Toronto (2026)
United States vs Canada — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Visa stamps:Easy <90 daysModerate 3–6 moComplex 6+ mo
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 51% cheaper in Toronto ($1659/mo vs $3413/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in Toronto (24°C vs 21°C).
- •Toronto is safer by homicide rate (2.3 vs 4.4 per 100k).
- •Toronto scores higher on democracy (8.7 vs 7.8 / 10 EIU).
San Francisco vs Toronto — Common Questions
Is San Francisco cheaper than Toronto?▾
Toronto is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1659/month in Toronto vs $3413/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, San Francisco or Toronto?▾
Toronto is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. San Francisco has a rate of 4.40 per 100,000 and Toronto has 2.27 per 100,000.
Should I move to San Francisco or Toronto?▾
Toronto scores 73 to San Francisco's 58 on livability — the gap is real. San Francisco has its charms, but the numbers favor Toronto. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Is it easier to get residency in San Francisco or Toronto?▾
San Francisco: US Employment-Based Green Card (complex process, Permanent residence). Toronto: Canada Express Entry (complex process, Permanent residence). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, San Francisco or Toronto?▾
Toronto is warmer in summer (24°C vs 21°C). San Francisco has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
Don't agree? Take the quiz and see what fits you.
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