A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Francisco vs. Portland for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit San Francisco or Portland?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco or Portland, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a scenic, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and beaches.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

San Francisco and Portland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Golden Gate Bridge
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in San Francisco or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Francisco than Portland. San Francisco is bigger than Portland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Francisco is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Portland is more popular for its small town charm. San Francisco is more touristy than Portland and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is San Francisco different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland and San Francisco. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Francisco or Portland?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco is very popular for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit San Francisco from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.


Is San Francisco or Portland Better for Theater?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco is a coastal city with good options for theatre. However, Portland is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Portland is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in San Francisco or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco is very popular for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in San Francisco have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is San Francisco or Portland Better for Nightlife?

San Francisco
Portland

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both San Francisco and Portland.

If you're looking for night time activities San Francisco has a few options to choose from. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.


Is San Francisco or Portland Better for Music?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco and Portland are both destinations where visitors can find notable live music.

The music scene helps keep San Francisco active and fun. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

You'll find some good live music in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Is San Francisco or Portland Better for Beaches?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

The beaches at San Francisco attract visitors from all over. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is San Francisco or Portland Better for Hiking?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco is very popular for its hiking trails. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around San Francisco visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.


Is the Shopping Better in San Francisco or Portland?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco is very popular for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in San Francisco. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is San Francisco or Portland Better for Families?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

San Francisco is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is San Francisco or Portland Better for Couples?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

San Francisco makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.


Is San Francisco or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco
Portland

For backpackers, both San Francisco and Portland are high quality places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Is San Francisco or Portland Better for Students?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over to stay in San Francisco. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Is San Francisco or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

San Francisco has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.


Is San Francisco or Portland a more walkable city?

San Francisco
Portland

San Francisco and Portland are high quality when it comes to walkability.

San Francisco is a very walkable destination. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

For even more information, also check out Is San Francisco Worth Visiting? and Is Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or San Francisco?

How long in San Francisco or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both San Francisco and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than in Portland. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for San Francisco, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

Families should spend more time in San Francisco than Portland. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Francisco, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in San Francisco than Portland. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Francisco that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Portland if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in San Francisco.


  • How many days in San Francisco or Portland? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Francisco 3-7 
    Portland 2-3

One day in San Francisco or Portland?

San Francisco is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the eclectic destination of Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in San Francisco or Portland?

San Francisco is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.


Five days in San Francisco or Portland?

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the eclectic destination of Portland. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in San Francisco or Portland?

San Francisco is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Francisco has to offer. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Portland or San Francisco?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in San Francisco is $222, while the average daily cost in Portland is $180. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for San Francisco and Portland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Francisco $130
    Portland $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Francisco $260
    Portland $194
Compare Hotels in San Francisco and Portland

Looking for a hotel in San Francisco or Portland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in San Francisco


Hotels in Portland


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: San Francisco Hotel Prices and Portland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Francisco $16
    Portland $28
Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Francisco

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in San Francisco:


  • Taxi to SFO
    $45
  • Golden Gate Bridge Toll
    $6.00
  • Alcatraz Tour
    $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Francisco

Also for San Francisco, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in San Francisco HTL-APT (SFO): $119
  • Transfer from San Francisco to San Francisco Cruise Port by Sedan: $127
  • San Francisco to/from Yosemite National Park: 1-Way Transfer: $149
  • San Francisco to Yosemite One-Way Transfer: $149
  • San Francisco to San Francisco Airport Private Departure Transfer: $80
  • San Francisco to San Francisco Airport (SFO) - Departure Private Transfer: $112
  • San Francisco to Oakland Airport (OAK) Private Departure Transfer: $64
  • San Francisco Airport 1-Way Transfer to/from the City: $150
  • San Francisco Airport 1-Way Transfer to and from the San Francisco: $150
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO): Transfer to San Francisco: $349
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO): Transfer to Cruise Terminal: $566
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO) to San Francisco - Arrival Private Transfer: $112

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

Also for Portland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $152
  • Arrival Private Transfer Portland Airport PDX to Portland City: $148
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $143
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • Lake Oswego to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $72
  • Portland downtown to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • Waterfall Express -PDX: Waterfall Trolley Tickets + Transfer: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into San Francisco or Portland?

Prices for flights to both Portland and San Francisco change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    San Francisco $46
    Portland $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Francisco

For San Francisco, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • San Francisco Virtual Food Tour with Local Guide: $19
  • North Beach and Little Italy Food Tour: $79
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Bay: $82
  • Secret Food Tours San Francisco: $84
  • Mission District Food Tour with Tastings: $85
  • Farmers' Market & Ferry Building Food Tour: $87
  • Mission District Walking Food Tour: $89
  • Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco North Beach Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco North Beach and Chinatown - Secret Food Tours: $89
  • San Francisco Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $89
  • San Francisco Chinatown Food Tour: $89

Typical Food Prices in Portland

For Portland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

For Portland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Portland Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Walking Pizza Tour: $75
  • Secret Food Tour with Local Guide: $95
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $105
  • The Vibrant Kerns Hood Food Tour: $105
  • The Bustling Buckman Hood Food Tour: $105
  • Portland Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $109
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $110
  • All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour: $119
  • All-Inclusive Walking Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Francisco $46
    Portland $24

Tours and Activities in San Francisco

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for San Francisco.

  • Streets and Stairways of San Francisco with Local Guided Tour: $50
  • 1 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: $73
  • 1-Day San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Bus Tour: $63
  • 1-hour San Francisco Bay Area Photography Experience: $149
  • 1.5-Hour San Francisco Bay Sailing Tour: $99
  • 2 or 3 Hour Private Group San Francisco City Tour Open-air Jeep: $169
  • 2-Day San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour + Chinatown Tour: $85
  • 2-Hour Double Decker City Tour of San Francisco: $73
  • 2HR Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Loop GoCar Tour: $172
  • 3 Hour Sightseeing Small Group Guided Tour in San Francisco: $89
  • 3-Hour Private Group San Francisco Open Top Jeep Tour: $249
  • 3-Hour Private Muir Giant Redwoods Trees and Sausalito Tour: $203

Tours and Activities in Portland

For Portland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-hour Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River: $102
  • 2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River: $86
  • 7 Wonders of the Gorge 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise: $90
  • 90 Minute Sailing Tour of Portland: $99
  • A Full Day of Wonder: Wine, Waterfalls, and Timberline Tour: $189
  • Aerial adventure above Portland, Oregon: $189
  • Afternoon Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland: $75
  • Afternoon Multnomah Falls and Gorge Waterfalls Tour: $75
  • Airplane Flight Tour over Portland, Oregon: $99
  • All Day Northern Oregon Wineries and Forest Bike Tour: $245
  • Amazing Private Gorge Air Tour for 3: $219
  • Amazing Waterfall and City Air Tour: $289

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Museums in San Francisco, The Best Outdoor Activities in San Francisco, and Things to Do In San Francisco on a Rainy Day.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Francisco $22
    Portland $17

Sample the Local Flavors in San Francisco

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in San Francisco:

  • Chinatown San Francisco’s Bar Crawl: An Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Sunset Distillery with Local Whiskey or Cocktail Tasting: $34
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • 2 to 3 Hour Bar Crawl in Castro San Francisco: $49
  • Wine Tasting on the Bay: $85
  • Half-Day Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings: $126
  • Small Group: The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour: $139
  • The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour: $139
  • The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour: $139
  • From The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour: $139
  • Alcatraz and Sausalito California Wine Tasting Experience: $150
  • Napa and Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $159

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Portland Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings: $40
  • Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits: $49
  • Weird Bar Crawl with Fanatical Local: $59
  • Eastside Craft Brewery Walking Tour: $59
  • Portland, Maine: Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $89
  • Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included): $135
  • Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $179
  • Silver Falls Hike and Wine Tour: $179
  • Multnomah Falls, Hood River Excursion Train Ride & Wine Tour: $210
  • From Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour: $210


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Francisco and Portland, we can see that San Francisco is more expensive. And not only is Portland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Portland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Portland and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in San Francisco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Francisco than you might in Portland.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is San Francisco Expensive? and Is Portland Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Francisco or Portland?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of San Francisco and Portland, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit San Francisco or Portland?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit San Francisco or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Francisco and Portland. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, San Francisco is cooler than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Francisco in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In July, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Portland. San Francisco gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    San Francisco 63°F (17°C) 
    Portland 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit San Francisco or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Francisco as well as Portland. Many travelers come to San Francisco for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, San Francisco is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in San Francisco average around 63°F (17°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

San Francisco usually gets less rain in October than Portland. San Francisco gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    San Francisco 63°F (17°C) 
    Portland 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit San Francisco or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and San Francisco are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to San Francisco in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland can be very cold during winter. San Francisco is much warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Portland. San Francisco gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    San Francisco 50°F (10°C) 
    Portland 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit San Francisco or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and San Francisco during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to San Francisco for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, San Francisco is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Francisco in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

San Francisco usually gets less rain in April than Portland. San Francisco gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    San Francisco 58°F (14°C) 
    Portland 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Portland and San Francisco

San Francisco Portland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)