Skip to content

Your next address

Penang or San Francisco

Comprehensive comparison between Penang (Malaysia) and San Francisco (USA). Analyze differences in purchasing power, housing, safety, and visas to make your next move.

Loading destinations...

How much salary do you need in San Francisco?

Use our Purchasing Power Calculator to find out exactly how much you need to earn in {{city}} to maintain your current lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Based on 2026 cost of living data, Penang is more affordable than San Francisco. Penang has a cost rating of 30/100, while San Francisco has a cost rating of 10/100.
In terms of safety, Penang ranks higher with a safety score of 82/100, compared to San Francisco at 60/100. Penang's safety score is 82/100 and San Francisco's safety score is 60/100.
Average rent in Penang is typically €350 - €650 per month, whereas typical rent in San Francisco averages $3,200+ per month.
For Penang, the visa process is rated as: DE Rantau Nomad Visa & MM2H (Malaysia’s DE Rantau Nomad Visa grants remote workers up to 2 years residence (~$24k/yr income), alongside MM2H long-term residency.). For San Francisco, the process is rated as: Hard (Standard US H1B/L1 paths apply; extremely competitive.).

Explore more destinations