If you’re considering retiring in California, it may be worth taking a closer look at San Diego vs San Francisco. Settlers named San Diego and San Francisco after saints: San Diego de Alcalá and Saint Francis of Assisi. The distance between the two cities is about 500 miles, and they feature different climates and landscapes.
Still, both legendary California cities are associated with upscale West Coast living and a bit of glamour. Retirees are drawn to both, and our in-depth comparison has valuable information for 55+ homebuyers eyeing this part of the state. We’ve also selected five active adult communities in each region, with the details you need to make an informed decision.
Let’s start by looking at these two California cities side by side.
Overview of San Diego and San Francisco
In Southern California, San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and year-round pleasant weather. It offers a more relaxed, coastal atmosphere emphasizing outdoor activities and natural beauty.
In Northern California, San Francisco has iconic landmarks, a diverse culture, and more of an urban environment. Its unique geography and historical significance make it a fine choice for 55+ adults seeking a dynamic city life.
To summarize these cities, San Diego has a warm climate and a focus on outdoor living. San Francisco appeals to those drawn to cultural and intellectual activities. But there’s so much more to both.
Geography, Metro Areas, and Population
San Diego offers a remarkable coastline with numerous beaches, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or beachside walks. Rolling hills, beautiful waterfronts, and nearby deserts characterize the city’s landscape. Additionally, the proximity to nature reserves and parks offers opportunities for hiking and nature exploration.
San Francisco is famous for its more rugged terrain and dramatic scenery. The city’s geography includes steep hills, expansive bay views, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. The surrounding areas feature forests and coastal cliffs, providing a different yet equally impressive natural environment.
Metropolitan Areas
About an hour north of the Mexico border, San Diego is near California cities like Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, La Jolla, Coronado, and Tijuana, Mexico. The primary industries are technology, defense, and tourism. Also, it’ll take you about three hours to get to Los Angeles from San Diego.
San Francisco is part of the San Francisco Bay Area, which also includes cities like Oakland and San Jose. The region is known for its tech industry, diverse neighborhoods, and cultural richness. The Bay Area’s connectivity allows retirees to enjoy the benefits of a large, dynamic metropolitan region. Also, the drive to LA takes six to seven hours from San Fran.
The Size of Each City
San Diego has a population of approximately 1.38 million people, making it the second-largest city in California. Its size contributes to a more spread-out, less congested feel compared to larger urban areas.
San Francisco, with a population of about 808,000, is known for its dense, compact layout. This attribute contributes to its busy city atmosphere and vibrant street life, but it also means space can be more limited.
Climate
Average Temperatures
The San Diego area enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average temperatures typically range from 50 degrees in winter to 75 degrees in summer. That consistent weather is advantageous if you like stable, predictable conditions.
Due to its coastal location, San Francisco experiences a cooler climate with more variability. Average temperatures range from 45 degrees to 65 degrees throughout the year. Also, frequent fog and cooler ocean breezes influence the city’s weather. It’s a unique microclimate suited for retirees who enjoy lower temperatures and less intense heat.
Common Weather Conditions
San Diego’s weather is generally sunny with occasional rain, making it perfect for outdoor activities year-round. The city’s mild climate supports a 55+ active lifestyle with countless beach outings, hiking, and outdoor sports opportunities.
San Francisco’s weather is marked by fog, especially in summer, which can lead to cooler temperatures. The city’s climate supports other outdoor activities, like brunch cruises and exploring the many parks throughout the city.
Popular Outdoor Activities for Active Adults
In San Diego, retirees surf, sail, bike, hike, and enjoy the extensive network of beaches and waterfronts. Also, numerous golf courses and recreational centers complement the city’s outdoor lifestyle. Popular outdoor pursuits include bicycling, kayaking in La Jolla Cove, hiking at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, and strolling along the Embarcadero.
San Francisco offers activities like walking or biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting the San Francisco Zoo, exploring Fisherman’s Wharf, and taking cable car rides around town. The city’s varied terrain also supports hiking and nature exploration.
Comparing the Cost of Living
Housing Costs
San Diego’s housing market is somewhat more affordable than San Francisco’s, though still considered high by national standards. Prices for homes and rental properties vary, with coastal areas commanding higher prices. According to Best Places, the cost of living in San Diego is 55% higher than the national average.
San Francisco has some of the highest housing prices in the country. The city’s real estate market is competitive, and prices for homes and rentals are significantly higher than in many other cities. The high cost of living—146% higher than the national average—reflects the strong demand for housing in this highly desirable location.
Taxes
California has relatively high state income taxes ranging from 1% to 12.3%. Cali residents’ income is taxed at different rates. For example, the first $10,412 might be taxed at 1%, and $10,412 to $24,684 would be taxed at 2%. Therefore, retirees who are not earning income might be in a better position tax-wise.
The statewide sales tax rate is 7.25%. But here’s some good news: The state property tax rate is 0.71%—lower than the national rate of 0.99%. Also, Social Security retirement benefits are not taxed for state residents, but retirement accounts and pensions are not.
Utilities and Basic Essentials
Utilities, including electricity, water, and gas, are comparable in both cities, though San Francisco may have slightly higher costs due to its higher overall cost of living. Essentials like groceries and transportation also reflect the higher price levels typical of major urban centers.
Culture and Entertainment
What to Do in San Diego
San Diego offers a range of iconic landmarks and attractions, like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and the historic Gaslamp Quarter. The city is also home to many museums and art galleries, including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the San Diego Natural History Museum.
Shopping enthusiasts will find large areas like Fashion Valley Mall and Westfield UTC, which offer plenty of stores and dining options. For entertainment, San Diego has venues like the San Diego Civic Theatre and outdoor music festivals.
What to Do in San Francisco
San Francisco’s cultural offerings include world-class museums like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the de Young Museum. Its large shopping areas include Union Square and the Ferry Building Marketplace, both offering marvelous shopping and dining experiences. Also, noteworthy indoor attractions include the San Francisco Opera, Aquarium of the Bay, and the historic Castro Theatre.
Health Care and Education
San Diego is home to more than 80 research institutions. Also, advanced medical research and biotechnology industries work with local hospitals to provide cutting-edge treatments.
San Francisco’s health care system includes a network of public and private hospitals, clinics, and health centers. This collaborative system allows patients to access primary, specialty, or urgent care facilities.
Here are the top San Diego vs San Francisco universities:
San Diego
- UCSF Health-UCSF Medical Center
- John Muir Health-Concord Medical Center
- California Pacific Medical Center-Van Ness Campus
San Francisco
- UC San Diego Health-La Jolla and Hillcrest Hospitals
- Scripps La Jolla Hospitals
- Sharp Memorial Hospital
Noteworthy Continuing Education Centers
Good universities are vital for a city as they drive economic growth, encourage innovation, and attract talent. They offer educational opportunities that enhance the local workforce and support research and development. Many offer continuing education classes for active adults.
Here are the top San Diego vs San Francisco universities:
San Diego
- University of California, San Diego (UCSD)
- San Diego State University (SDSU)
- Point Loma Nazarene University
San Francisco
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of San Francisco
55+ Community Recommendations
55+ Communities in San Diego
Oaks North – San Diego, CA
High $400ks – High $1Ms
Oaks North comprises eight separate neighborhoods and offers 1,963 resale condos, attached homes, and single-family homes. These homes feature two-car garages, luxurious bathrooms, upgraded cabinets, as well as covered patios.
This community’s main draw is the 27-hole golf course; there are also tennis courts, a clubhouse, a fitness center, a movie theater, and hobby rooms. Additionally, there are activities for every interest, like water aerobics, pickleball, a dance club, and potluck dinners.
Seven Oaks – San Diego, CA
High $600ks – Low $1Ms
This established 55+ community has 1,700 resale single-family and attached homes ranging from 950 to over 2,000 square feet. It’s located within the master-planned community of Rancho Bernardo and just a few miles from Oaks North. Seven Oaks has its own clubhouse and separate amenities like golf practice facilities, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, as well as walking and biking trails.
This 55+ community doesn’t have an onsite golf course, but it’s across the street from the Country Club of Rancho Bernardo, which has an 18-hole golf course. The HOA fees cover the community club membership, exterior landscaping, as well as common area maintenance.
Auberge at Del Sur – San Diego, CA
High $1Ms
As a newer, smaller community, Auberge at Del Sur offers 196 resale attached and single-family homes in a gated property. The four spacious floor plans range from 1,276 to 1,843 square feet, with one- or two-story plans and open layouts.
The Auberge at Del Sur clubhouse is a hub of activity, with an outdoor pool, a fitness center, sports courts, and an outdoor amphitheater. You’ll also find a pet park, walking and biking trails, parks, and natural space on the grounds.
Regency Villas – San Diego, CA
High $300ks – Mid $400ks
Here’s an appealing 55+ condo community with a lower price point and just 132 resale units. Regency Villas is in the University City area, and its residents are within walking distance of parks, restaurants, and shops.
Regency Villas residents enjoy elevator access, assigned underground parking, as well as proximity to some of San Diego’s best hospitals. The units range from 578 to 816 square feet with one to two bedrooms and bathrooms. Also, the property amenities include a clubhouse, a fitness center, and meeting rooms.
Avante at Del Sur – San Diego, CA
Low $1Ms
Geared for downsizing, Avante at Del Sur is a gated community with 119 attached homes. The eight floor plans range from 1,544 to 1,787 square feet with one- and two-story designs.
This community’s amenities include a clubhouse, an outdoor pool and patio, as well as a gazebo. One of Avante at Del Sur’s best features is its location. Recreation areas like Black Mountain Open Space Park, The Farms Golf Club, and Rolling Hills Park are no more than 10 minutes away.
55+ Communities in the San Francisco Area
The Peninsula Regent – San Mateo, CA
Low $200ks – Mid $800ks
The Peninsula Regent is an established 55+ condo community with 207 units and a desirable lock-and-leave lifestyle. The eight thoughtfully designed floor plans have one or two bedrooms and bathrooms, with standard features like master suites and private patios. Some units also have upgraded appliances and dens, and carport parking is available.
Homeowners can access the community’s fitness center, indoor pool, whirlpool spa, and concierge services. It’s like living in a resort—there’s even an onsite restaurant and community transportation. Also, group activities include yoga, holiday parties, a hiking club, and day trips.
Foster Square – Foster City, CA
Low $1Ms – High $1Ms
Completed in 2020, Foster Square offers 200 resale condos and recreational facilities on a property 25 miles south of San Francisco. Its two luxury condo buildings are named Brixton and Avery. Brixon has five floor plans ranging from 1,144 to 1,715 square feet with two or three bedrooms and two or two-and-a-half bathrooms, while the Avery has five floor plans ranging from 1,666 to 2,172 square feet with two or three bedrooms and two or two-and-a-half bathrooms. Additionally, Foster Square features tennis courts, a scenic lake, and walking and biking trails.
Rossmoor – Walnut Creek, CA
High $300ks – Low $2Ms
This age-restricted, gated community features 6,678 resale condos, attached homes, and single-family homes. There are 63 luxury detached homes with garages; the remainder are co-op units. Overall, these homes range from 600 to 2,535 square feet—quite a selection of floor plans.
With the 18-hole Dollar Ranch Course and the 9-hole Creekside course, living here is a dream for golfers. Rossmoor also has five clubhouses, three swimming facilities, and tennis courts. This expansive community has too many clubs and activities to list here, but some of the most popular are the Foodies, pickleball, and poker. The HOA fees cover landscaping, common area maintenance, bus transportation, security, as well as exterior maintenance.
Menlo Commons – Menlo Park, CA
Low $900ks – Low $1Ms
This sought-after 55+ community has 122 luxury condominiums and high-end amenities on a property 30 minutes from San Francisco and San Jose. The units range from 660 to 1,270 square feet and offer one to two bedrooms and bathrooms. They feature updated kitchens, luxury hardwood floors, as well as private covered balconies. Each condo also receives two assigned parking garage spaces.
Menlo Commons residents enjoy a welcoming clubhouse with a fitness center, a whirlpool spa, and an outdoor pool. Additionally, the HOA handles pool service, common area maintenance, exterior and roof maintenance, and trash pickup. Nearby, residents have easy access to plenty of grocery stores and pharmacies, Filoli Historic House and Gardens, Sharon Heights Golf and Country Club, and Stanford Hospital.
Sunny Glen – San Ramon, CA
High $300ks – Low $700ks
Our fifth San Francisco-area active adult community has 44 attached resale homes ranging from 612 to 780 square feet. These homes have one to two bedrooms as well as a front porch. This community has a familiar neighborhood feel, with manicured yards, mature trees, and quiet streets.
The impressive indoor and outdoor amenities include hobby rooms, billiards, a sparkling swimming pool, as well as bocce ball. The community also hosts on-site events and classes. This remarkable property is close to San Ramon Community Center, San Ramon Regional Medical Center, and a diverse selection of restaurants.
Contact 55places.com Today!
With so many choices, you can find the floor plans, amenities, activities, and conveniences you want in either of these stellar cities. Still thinking about San Diego vs San Francisco? Contact 55places.com today to learn more about 55+ living in California!
