Quick answer
Overall prices in the San Francisco, CA metro were 115.6 vs 101.8 in Providence, RI in 2024 (US = 100), so San Francisco is 13.6% more expensive than Providence; housing rents differ by 87% (194.7 vs 103.9). A $75,000 income in San Francisco buys about what $66,022 buys in Providence, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | San Francisco | Providence | San Francisco vs Providence |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 115.6 | 101.8 | +13.6% |
| Goods | 108.5 | 97.1 | +11.7% |
| Housing (rents) | 194.7 | 103.9 | +87.5% |
| Utilities | 172.6 | 148.8 | +16.0% |
| Other services | 106.2 | 102.3 | +3.8% |
| All items, 2008 | 119.1 | 103.7 | +14.9% |
| $50,000 in San Francisco equals in Providence | $44,015 | ||
| $100,000 in San Francisco equals in Providence | $88,029 | ||
| $150,000 in San Francisco equals in Providence | $132,044 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.