Los Angeles vs San Jose
Side-by-side rent vs buy analysis comparing these two markets
Overall Comparison
San Jose has an edge
San Jose edges ahead based on overall market conditions.
Median Home Price
$770,000
Median RentBETTER
$2,850/mo
Price-to-Rent Ratio
22.5
Property Tax RateTIE
0.73%
Price Change (1Y)BETTER
+5.3%
Price Change (5Y)BETTER
+39.0%
Break-Even Years
13 years
10-Year Wealth Difference
$80,000
Median Home PriceBETTER
$740,000
Median Rent
$2,900/mo
Price-to-Rent RatioBETTER
21.3
Property Tax RateTIE
0.73%
Price Change (1Y)
+4.2%
Price Change (5Y)
+28.0%
Break-Even YearsBETTER
6 years
10-Year Wealth DifferenceBETTER
$5,000
Key Differences
Home Prices
Los Angeles's median home price of $770,000 is higher than San Jose's $740,000 by 4%.
Monthly Rent
Renting in Los Angeles costs $2,850/mo compared to $2,900/mo in San Jose—a difference of $50/mo.
Buy vs Rent Verdict
Los Angeles favors renting, while San Jose favors either option.
Break-Even Timeline
Buying breaks even in 13 years in Los Angeles vs 6 years in San Jose.
Run Your Own Numbers
This comparison uses median values. Your income, savings, and goals matter. Use our Buy vs Rent calculator to get a personalized analysis.