San Francisco itself is quite a compact city, but the wider region – the Bay Area as it is known – is much bigger and very diverse. Whether you're hoping to live somewhere central in one of San Francisco's iconic, historic neighborhoods or are happy to live further out, there are many variables to consider. You may have heard about the sky-high housing prices in San Francisco, so any expat looking to settle in this city should be prepared for very steep accommodation costs. On top of pricing, there is public transport, safety, and convenience to consider. Keep reading for a breakdown of the most well-known neighborhoods in this beautiful city, as well as a few lesser-known gems.
Choosing your neighborhood in San Francisco
Some things to consider when choosing your neighborhood in San Francisco are:
Cost
The average rent in San Francisco is $3,360 a month. This can vary from neighborhood to neighborhood, but the type of accommodation you are seeking will have a huge impact on this number. Averages can be useful, but it's much more illuminating to search for properties in areas where you want to live and see how much they are going for.
Proximity and convenience
Commuting to work daily can be a tedious task, so it's always a good idea to look for accommodation not too far from your workplace. Also, check whether public transportation is available, given the high cost of getting around in this city. San Francisco has a great public transport network called the BART that you should get familiar with before selecting your neighborhood.
The local vibes
Whether you're after the vibrant LGBT history of the Castro or the beachside luxury of Mile Rock Beach, the vibe of your neighborhood is very important. The best way to see if you connect with a place is to visit and have a look around: Are there cafes and bars that appeal to you, or are you more interested in green space and playgrounds? If you can't visit beforehand, do some research online, talk to people in the know, and even explore on Google Earth.
Safety
There is an ongoing homelessness crisis in San Francisco, and many neighborhoods contain homeless encampments. Since 2020, the crime rate in SF has been rising - The San Francisco Police Officers Association has reported a 7.5-percent increase in crime overall, with property crime up 20% and homicides around 17%. Not all neighborhoods are dangerous. Consult up-to-date guides about current crime stats in the city before making a decision.
Affordable neighbourhoods in San Francisco
The Mission District
Located in the heart of San Francisco, the Mission District is a colorful and vibrant neighborhood with a rich cultural heritage. Known for its Latinx influence, the neighborhood is home to an array of authentic taquerias, bakeries, and street art. Despite its popularity, the Mission District offers many housing options, including affordable apartments and Victorian-style homes.
Sunset District
The Sunset District, situated in the western part of San Francisco, is often overlooked by newcomers but has much to offer. With its proximity to Ocean Beach and Golden Gate Park, Sunset provides residents with a relaxed, beach-town atmosphere. While housing prices are still high, you may find more affordable rentals and homes than the city's core.
Daly City
Just south of San Francisco's border, Daly City offers a budget-friendly alternative to city living. With excellent public transportation connections to downtown San Francisco, Daly City is a practical choice for commuters.
Oakland
Across the bay from San Francisco lies Oakland, a city that has undergone significant revitalization in recent years. Oakland boasts a thriving arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and a strong sense of community. While certain neighborhoods within Oakland can still be expensive, there are areas, such as East Oakland and Fruitvale, where you can find more affordable housing options. The BART makes commuting between Oakland and San Francisco easy.
South San Francisco
Situated just south of the city, South San Francisco offers a suburban escape from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco proper. It's known for its proximity to the San Francisco International Airport and the biotech industry, which means many employment opportunities.
Other iconic neighborhoods in San Francisco
Fisherman's Wharf
Located along the northern waterfront, Fisherman's Wharf is a bustling tourist hotspot. It's famous for its seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and attractions like Pier 39, where you can see sea lions lounging on docks.
Chinatown
San Francisco's Chinatown is one of the oldest and most vibrant in North America. It's a bustling neighborhood filled with markets, temples, authentic Chinese cuisine, and colorful lanterns. Exploring its narrow streets is like stepping into another world.
North Beach
Often referred to as San Francisco's "Little Italy", North Beach is known for its Italian restaurants, cafes, and buzzing nightlife. It's also home to Washington Square Park and the iconic Coit Tower, offering panoramic city views.
Haight-Ashbury
This neighborhood gained fame during the 1960s as the epicenter of the counterculture movement. It's known for its historic Victorian homes, vintage shops, and bohemian atmosphere. The neighborhood continues to be a symbol of the city's progressive spirit.
Nob Hill
Nob Hill is synonymous with luxury and elegance. The neighborhood features grand mansions, upscale hotels like the Fairmont and Mark Hopkins, and steep hills offering stunning city views. The famous cable cars run through this area.
The Mission
The Mission District is known for its vibrant street art, Latino culture, and thriving food scene. It's home to numerous murals, hip cafes, and trendy boutiques. The annual Carnival festival adds to the neighborhood's colorful vibe.
Pacific Heights
Pacific Heights is an affluent residential neighborhood with picturesque views of the San Francisco Bay. It's characterized by its grand Victorian and Edwardian mansions, including the famous "Painted Ladies" on Alamo Square.
Financial District
San Francisco's Financial District is the city's central business hub, characterized by skyscrapers, bustling streets, and iconic landmarks like the Transamerica Pyramid. It's where you'll find the heart of the city's financial and corporate activities.
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