When you think of San Francisco, what comes to mind? Cable cars, foggy mornings, sourdough bread … how about affordability? No? Well, it’s true that most people wouldn’t use the word “affordable” to describe San Francisco. In fact, San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. It’s only topped by New York City, according to World Population Review. A renter will spend on average $2,850 for a San Francisco apartment, as of June 2023. However, this is down just over two percent from last year.
San Francisco is an iconic city famous for tech companies, fantastic beaches, restaurants, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, the “Painted Ladies,” and cable cars. And while finding a place with affordable rent might still be an uphill battle, we’ll help you scale those hilly San Francisco streets to find affordable neighborhoods you’ll love.
San Francisco Neighborhoods That Are More Affordable:
- Bayview-Vistacion Valley
- Mission
- Civic Center
- Richmond-Western Addition
- The Haight
Bayview-Vistacion Valley
Bayview-Vistacion Valley is situated on the southeast corner of San Francisco on the bay. Apartments in the Bayview-Vistacion Valley area are the most affordable on our list, averaging $2,078 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
There’s a lot to do in Bayview-Vistacion Valley. John McLaren Park is a 312-acre urban park where locals come to enjoy an afternoon on the golf course, long walks on the trails, and a relaxing dip in the pool. While the community does have a ton of modern amenities, it also has some historic ones. Construction of the Bayview Opera House was completed in 1888. Today, it hosts several local events and is recognized as a California landmark. Just like their conveniences, renters living in Bayview-Vistacion Valley enjoy more affordable apartment rents, direct access to Interstate 280, and the T Third Street rail line.
Mission
Residing in Mission, you reap the benefits of Downtown San Francisco’s many destinations and attractions (without all of the traffic). The neighborhood is home to Mission Dolores Park, which boasts great skyline views – a definite must-see! Other attractive qualities of Mission include its eclectic style, authentic restaurants, and outdoor art.
Mission apartments currently have an average rent of $3,062 per month for a one-bedroom, which is slightly higher than the rent in Downtown San Francisco, which is $2,541. However, renters living her can explore the community’s nightlife and culture. The Carnaval Festival is a sought-after event in Mission that features global cuisine, dancing, and music. Commuting through the city is easy for Mission renters, since the community is served by the BART rail system.
Civic Center
This neighborhood houses the city’s largest collection of government offices. As far as rent goes, it’s on par with the San Francisco average at $2,598 for a one-bedroom. Renters living in Civic Center are attracted to its central location, with close proximity to shopping at Union Station, public transportation, and employers.
While it’s on the pricier side, we think you’ll really fall for Civic Center’s art and culture. Here, you’re blocks from the historic War Memorial Opera House, Asian Art Museum, and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. The community’s Civic Center Plaza hosts numerous parades throughout the year. Residents can travel with ease thanks to the F Market Streetcar and the subway.
Richmond-Western Addition
Living in Richmond-Western Addition is a great escape of big-city life without leaving the big city. You’re embraced by park space, and you’re close to Ocean and Baker Beaches plus two golf courses. The rent is more affordable here compared to the city itself. Apartments in Richmond- Western Addition average $2,324 for a one-bedroom, compared to the downtown average of $2,541.
This community has a plethora of medical and healthcare facilities, and it is the home to the University of San Francisco’s campus. Renters enjoy the proximity to Legion of Honor – a fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park – and spectacular views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Explore Geary Boulevard and Balboa Street for a variety of eateries and coffee houses.
The Haight
The Haight is an eclectic community nestled between Golden Gate Park, Panhandle, and Buena Vista Park. Renting in the Haight puts you at the heart and origin of San Francisco’s hippie culture, where residents embrace the vibes of the 1960s. You’ll find everything from tattoo shops to vintage clothing stores to vinyl record shops, which adds to the ambiance.
It’s a great area with restaurants in walking distance of affordable apartments. The rent here averages $2,307 per month (lower than the city’s average). When you’re not tapping your toes to live rmusic at the Independent – a local music venue – you might find enjoyment in a stroll at the Shakespeare Garden, or sipping homebrew pints at Magnolia Brewing.
Even though rents are falling, San Francisco still tops the charts for expensive cities. However, you can find more affordable neighborhood options without having to move outside the city limits. Each neighborhood on our list is vibrant with a personality all its own, which is why renters love them so much. When you’re hunting for your apartment, remember to consider the most important aspects of your apartment search, such as researching the area and knowing how much you can afford to spend on rent. It’ll help you budget and save so you can land the perfect San Francisco home!
