San Francisco vs San Rafael: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between San Francisco, CA and San Rafael, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Francisco, CA | San Rafael, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,858▲ | $101,695 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.45▲ | $48.89 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,951 | $76,484▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $79,229 | $91,240▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $123,317 | $128,531▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $127,942 | $157,627▲ |
| Total Employed | 17,860▲ | 11 |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to San Rafael.
The salary gap between San Francisco and San Rafael is $1,163 (1.14%). San Francisco's median is +59.23% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Francisco spans $64,991,San Rafael spans $81,143. San Rafael has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced elementary school teachers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, San Rafael ($89,916 effective) pays 1.07% more than San Francisco ($88,968 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,858/year)
- ✓Larger job market (17,860 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Rafael if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($157,627)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $89,916)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in San Francisco grew 25.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -4.6% growth in San Rafael over the same period.
San Francisco, CA
$81,020 (2019) → $101,860 (2025)
San Rafael, CA
$105,570 (2024) → $100,708 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Francisco, CA
San Rafael, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: San Francisco or San Rafael?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Francisco and San Rafael?
Should I relocate from San Francisco to San Rafael as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in San Francisco vs San Rafael?
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Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov