San Francisco Neighborhoods by Average Rent

San Francisco's neighborhoods are each unique and vary in character, vibe and average cost of rent.

The city isn't as large as New York City or L.A. and ranks 16th as a large city in the U.S. and fourth in California, with a population of 896,047. The caffeine and canine-friendly city has more than 10,000 more dogs than kids and 300 coffee houses.

The entire Bay Area has more than 7 million residents and sits on roughly 50 hills. San Francisco's close proximity to Silicon Valley is one reason why it's such a pricey city to live in. The cost of living is high, despite the average household income in San Francisco that sits at almost $150,000.

What is the average rent in San Francisco?

The average city-wide rent in San Francisco is $4,060, which is significantly higher than the national average. This rate is relatively flat from last year at this time, however, many of the most expensive neighborhoods have seen prices drop by as much as 35 percent.

The most and least expensive neighborhoods in San Francisco

Depending on where you are in San Francisco, you may end up paying a premium for rent. Of course, there are San Francisco neighborhoods that are more affordable — both are based on the general demand of the area. Factors that could drive up the cost of rent include proximity to SOMA (South of Market) and how accessible you are to public transportation, restaurants, cafes and parks.

Generally speaking, the neighborhoods that are closer to the water or have sweeping views of the bay bridge tend to be on the pricier side. These may include Nob Hill, Pacific Heights and SOMA. There are also foggier and colder neighborhoods that are further out, including Inner Richmond, Tenderloin and Outer Sunset.

The most expensive San Francisco neighborhoods

*May not be a true market representation due to insufficient inventory

Areas within SOMA tend to be priciest since it's close to the downtown area. The rentals in this area are mostly newer, more modern high rises.

The Mission is great for incredible restaurants and bars, shopping and grabbing coffee, while the high-end vibe of the Marina District has incredible views of the water and the bay. Because of these unique offerings in each distinct neighborhood, expect to pay a premium.

The least expensive San Francisco neighborhoods

*May not be a true market representation due to insufficient inventory

Further out from SOMA, there are less expensive neighborhoods that include Inner Sunset, Lower Nob Hill and Mission Bay.

There are parts of San Francisco that may be easier for you to get around if you had a car. These neighborhoods are further out from public transportation and may have slightly colder and foggier climates.

Average rent prices in San Francisco neighborhoods

The chart below shows the average rent prices in all San Francisco neighborhoods.

*May not be a true market representation due to insufficient inventory

Find your San Francisco neighborhood

If you have your sights set on moving to San Francisco, find a neighborhood that most resonates with you based on average rent, local vibe, eateries and things to do. Each neighborhood has its own distinct culture and climate, so make sure to do your due diligence beforehand. Whatever neighborhood you choose, there are plenty of homes for sale and apartments for rent to suit your needs.

Rent prices are based on a rolling weighted average from Apartment Guide and Rent.com's multifamily rental property inventory of one-bedroom apartments. Data was pulled in November 2020 and goes back for one year. We use a weighted average formula that more accurately represents price availability for each individual unit type and reduces the influence of seasonality on rent prices in specific markets.

The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.