Apartments for Rent In San Francisco, CA

Q: Can I afford an apartment for rent in San Francisco, CA?

To help you better understand how much rent you can afford , check out Zumper's rent calculator. Our rent calculator can help you learn more about San Francisco average rent prices .

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Renter's guide to San Francisco, CA

Welcome to San Francisco, and get ready to leave your heart in this golden city exploding with diversity, culture, and history. The magic of San Francisco lies in the massive and colorful Spanish era murals in the Mission District, the military bases in the Presidio district that now house singles and families, and the streets and cafes where Allen Ginsberg and his fellow Beats roamed. With heart-stopping views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate, San Francisco offers an urban experience encircled by nature – you cannot escape the natural beauty that surrounds this city by the bay.

Encompassing an area of about 47 square miles, home to 800,000, and resplendent with Gold Rush era buildings, this city is a multicultural metropolis on the frontier of the booming technology, financial and art industries.

Despite significant devastation caused by the 1906 earthquake, the city pulled itself up and out of the rubble and has become one of the most desirable cities in the country. One of the richest cities on the planet, San Francisco ranks fourth in the world in billionaires and is rapidly becoming a focus for cutting edge investment, particularly in the field of sustainable energy. With close proximity to Silicon Valley, this city is the hub for tech startups. Renowned for its stunning Victorian apartments and homes, sophisticated culinary scene and world-class museums, San Francisco is a liberal and accepting home to all. Time to find your perfect apartment!

San Francisco is well known in the web world, with online businesses like Pinterest, Yelp, Airbnb, Esurance, Twitter, Lyft, Dropbox, Craigslist, StumbleUpon, Trulia, Reddit, imgur, and the Wikimedia Foundation. Wired Magazine is based in San Francisco as well, and famous entertainment producers include Dolby, LucasArts and LucasFilm. San Francisco also ranks in the top twenty global financial centers, with more than 30 international finance institutions having headquarters in the area. The major players include Charles Schwab, Wells Fargo, ThinkEquity, and the NFX Guild. In addition to its lucrative tech and finance sectors, San Francisco is home to retail giants such as Banana Republic, Gap, Gymboree, Levi Strauss, Old Navy, Pottery Barn, and Method Products. It’s also gearing up for an expanding biomedical industry, with the University of California - San Francisco being entirely dedicated to graduate education in health and biomedical sciences.

San Francisco rent data for:

Apartments for rent

Average Rent

$3,605

Year Over Year Change

-8%

$298

Rentals available, last 30 days

1,620

Rent ranges for San Francisco apartments

$3,790 - $38,499

$2,695 - $3,784

$0 - $2,694

$3,790 - $38,499

35%

$2,695 - $3,784

33%

$0 - $2,694

33%

35%

33%

San Francisco, CA rent trends

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in San Francisco, CA is $2,930. This is a 2% decrease compared to the previous year.

Over the past month, the average rent for a studio apartment in San Francisco decreased by -2% to $2,000. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment increased by 1% to $2,930, and the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment increased by 2% to $3,880.

Compare neighborhood median rent prices in San Francisco, CA

$2,273

14% higher than city median

$2,119

6% higher than city median

The median rent for studio apartments in SOMA is 7% higher than the median rent in Civic Center.

Schools in San Francisco, CA

San Francisco Unified School District is the public school district.

San Francisco is close to a few higher education institutions, such as City College Of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and University Of San Francisco, among others, for those residents planning to continue their education.

Source: Homeland Infrastructure Foundation

114

schools

52,811

students

About Niche: Niche compiles and analyzes the latest data from public sources like the US Census Bureau and the Department of Education to generate rankings for schools and neighborhoods across the US.

Disclaimer: School ratings from Niche are intended for informational purposes only. Check with the nearby schools to verify eligibility and zoning criteria before using this data to decide on your next home.

Showing 1 - 5 of 77 results

Average rent in San Francisco, CA

1 bedroom apartments for rent in SOMA

$3,093/mo

$3,267/mo

$2,395/mo

$3,435/mo

$3,200/mo

$3,195/mo

$2,995/mo

$3,075/mo

$2,695/mo

1 bedroom apartments for rent in Mission Bay

$3,354/mo

Discover neighborhoods near San Francisco, CA

Most popular neighborhoods in San Francisco

SOMA	281 listings
Civic Center	174 listings
Downtown	167 listings

Most affordable neighborhoods in San Francisco

Tenderloin	$2,138/mo
Downtown	$2,395/mo
Central Richmond	$2,595/mo

Most expensive neighborhoods in San Francisco

South Beach	$3,435/mo
Mission Bay	$3,354/mo
Civic Center	$3,267/mo

Mission

Looking for amazing thrift and antique shopping, and the sunniest spot in the city? One of the city's oldest neighborhoods, the Mission is thrumming with art, historic murals, and music. From mouth-watering pastries at Tartine Bakery to authentic Mexican food near Dolores Park, the Mission is the hood for the artist or entrepreneur, as well as for families. Known for bright colors mixed with ornate Victorian style, the Mission is full of historic apartments and single-family homes.

Civic Center

An easy walk to the Orpheum and Curran Theatres, the Opera House and Davies Symphony Hall and various art and music hubs, living in the Tenderloin is a performing arts lover's dream. Resistant to typical gentrification, affordable and diverse, this neighborhood is packed with great ethnic restaurants, City Hall, and the newly built SF Jazz Center is not far by foot. Dotted with parks and playgrounds and a variety of apartment styles for rent, this neighborhood is home to all.

SOMA

Where the techie entrepreneur meets the bohemian artist, SOMA is a mosaic of warehouses, loft apartments for rent, art museums and of course home to the SF Giants. Young, wild and free? Check out the bars and clubs on Folsom Street by night and the street fair by day. Kids? Swing over to the Yerba Buena Gardens to ice skate and bowl. Meeting in Silicon Valley? Hop on the Caltrain and you're there faster than you can say Google.

Nob Hill

One of the classic San Francisco neighborhoods, living on the hill is truly living the dream. With incomparable views of the Bay, Nob Hill is best known for its collection of hotels and luxury apartment buildings. Take in the elegant horticulture and gorgeous Grace Cathedral as you move down the hill toward Union Square and come across funky dive bars and cocktail lounges.

Pacific Heights

With a section of Broadway Avenue known as the "gold coast", this affluent and elegant hood hosts some of the most scenic spots in the city. Typically quiet and residential, you'll find most of the action of this neighborhood on Fillmore Street. Enjoy the consignment shops, fun Internet cafes like The Grove, boutiques and the constantly mispronounced high-end frozen yogurt shop: Fraiche (pronounced fresh).

North Beach

Welcome to San Francisco's beloved Little Italy and checkered-table cloth central. Home to some of the city's most happening bars and nightclubs, this neighborhood has been home to notables like Joe DiMaggio and Jack Kerouac. From pasta to poetry, North Beach is teeming with culture and history. Don't miss an evening of laughter at Beach Blanket Babylon, America's longest running musical revue. Fun fact: Irish coffee was invented here!

Hayes Valley

Bordering the performing arts district, Hayes Valley is a haven for fashionistas, German food lovers, and Blue Bottle coffee fans. Chock a block full of trendy boutiques, interior design shops, art galleries and top-rated restaurants, this neighborhood has transformed from seedy tenements to the uber chic "it" destination in San Francisco.

Financial District

Ever wanted to know where San Francisco gets its gorgeous skyline? In downtown San Francisco you'll find the main business district of the city comprised of downtown apartments, banks, commercial buildings and high rise apartments. At the end of Market Street is the Ferry Building, which houses a vibrant Farmer's Market and other delicious cuisine, as well as ferry access to Marin County and the East Bay.

Marina

THE neighborhood for those who seek a wide-open vista, waterfront apartments, and anyone athletically inclined. Plenty of space for those who want the city experience minus the tall buildings and can't live without their morning run. Adjacent to Crissy Field and clean beaches, the Marina boasts spectacular views of the Bay and its famous bridges. The hood is anchored by the carefully curated boutiques, popular bars and top-rated restaurants of bustling Chestnut Street.

Haight-Ashbury

Embracing its Summer of Love roots, the counter-culture vibe of the Haight provides a uniquely San Francisco experience. This sunny, eclectic neighborhood with an edgy reputation is home to affluent young professionals in their 20's and 30's as well as denizens from the hippy days. Bordered by Golden Gate Park and the Panhandle, you can satisfy your inner gazelle with wide open spaces just a short distance from a wide style and price range of boutiques, including the best selection of vintage clothing in the city, and an electric nightlife. Public transportation is the way to go.

Demographics for San Francisco, CA

We currently have 3,645 Houses and Apartments for Rent across all neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA. San Francisco rent prices vary across neighborhoods from SOMA to Telegraph Hill. Overall, 62% of residents are renters, and 41% have a Bachelor's degree. 38% drive their car to work, 32% take public transportation, and 4% walk. Before making your move, learn more about renting in each neighborhood, and San Francisco itself.

Gender

51% Male

49% Female

Age Range

0-19

15%

20-34

28%

35-44

15%

45-64

24%

65+

15%

Language

English

57%

Spanish

10%

Indo Euro

Asia Pac

24%

Other

Education

No HS

11%

High School

24%

Bachelor's

40%

Master's

15%

Prof Degree

Doctorate

San Francisco, Ca Households

Families

40% Families

60% Single

Property

62% Renters

38% Owners

Household Income

0-25k

14%

25-50k

10%

50-75k

75-100k

100-150k

15%

150k+

41%

Getting around San Francisco, CA

San Francisco locals spend about 33 minutes commuting, and most drive to get to work. Residents or visitors looking to take public transit can hop on a bus, the light rail or train run by Muni or BART to navigate San Francisco and nearby areas. The best way to fly in or out of San Francisco is through San Francisco International Airport, 10.98 miles away.

Walking

8/10

No car? No problem. Everything you need is within a few blocks.

Cycling

5/10

More spots are within biking distance and some roads are cyclist-friendly.

Driving

6/10

This area is accessible to thoroughfares and has ample parking options.

Transit

7/10

Popular public transit options are just a short walk from this location.

Scores for San Francisco are calculated based on the proximity to and amount of infrastructure supporting each method of transportation.

Satisfaction survey results for San Francisco, CA

We surveyed 10,000 renters across the country about what it's like living in their cities and neighborhoods. In San Francisco, 65% of residents reported feeling satisfied or very satisfied with the city overall, which is higher than the national average of 59.8%.

Top Three Reasons to Live in San Francisco

Parks & recreation

86%Satisfaction rating

Pet friendly

82%Satisfaction rating

Nightlife

76%Satisfaction rating

Other Things to Consider

Job market

Public transportation

Weather

Dating scene

Quality schools

Affordable housing

Cost of living

Job market

65%

Public transportation

65%

Weather

61%

Dating scene

51%

Quality schools

49%

Affordable housing

36%

Cost of living

17%

65%

61%

51%

49%

36%

17%

Data last updated in 2023. Do you live here? Take our survey and share your experience.

How we got this data

Moving companies and storage in San Francisco, CA

Moving companies in San Francisco, CA

NorthStar Moving Company

Kora Moving

Good Green Moving

Smart People Moving

Dependable Movers SF

Storage units in San Francisco, CA

City Storage of San Francisco

Public Storage

SOMA Self-Storage

Security Public Storage

Extra Space Storage

Cost of living in San Francisco, CA

The overall cost of living in San Francisco, CA is 74% higher than the national average, according to the Cost of Living Index published by the Council for Community and Economic Research. This is calculated by comparing several expenses, including food and basic necessities like energy and healthcare. When it comes to comparing these expenses to the rest of the country, in San Francisco you can expect groceries to cost more than the national average, and healthcare to cost more. Eggs run about $4.69 per carton, and milk $4.27. Regarding healthcare costs, a doctor’s visit could amount to $172 on average—but this will likely vary depending on several factors, including insurance and medical specialty.

Weather in San Francisco, CA

Mark Twain wasn't kidding when he said the "coldest winter he ever spent was a summer in San Francisco." With its proximity to the water, this city can be chilly. While it can be hard to escape the fog in the summer, its an essential part of the city's beauty and mystique. The weather is ridiculously glorious in the fall, particularly in September and October. One thing to keep in mind is that it is significantly less balmy west of Divisadero Street, so there is a difference between living on the western and eastern sides of the city. The warmest patch of the city is the Mission; prepare yourself for the fog in the Sunset.

Life in San Francisco, CA

How to Live Like a Local in San Francisco

New to the Bay Area or considering a move? Here are 6 things you can do to experience living in San Francisco to the fullest.

Best Cities for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Whether your lifestyle includes hiking, camping, fishing, or simply enjoying the fresh air, here are the best cities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Employment & economy in San Francisco, CA

Top Employers

Google

35,000+ employees

33,000+ employees

Kaiser Permanente

28,000+ employees

Apple

24,000+ employees

Facebook

20,000+ employees

Wells Fargo

13,000+ employees

Top Industries

INDUSTRY	EMPLOYED
Computer Software	192,000+
Internet	140,000+
Information Technology & Services	112,000+
Retail	102,000+
Financial Services	69,000+

If you work in computer software or internet, you’re in luck. San Francisco is known for these industries, but job-seekers can also find roles in information technology and services. Most locals work for companies like Google, Linkedin, and Kaiser permanente.

Source: People Data Labs

Things to do in San Francisco, CA

Some of the popular attractions in San Francisco include Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. When you’re feeling hungry, check out one of San Francisco’s top spots for food, such as Sunset Squares Slice Shop or Californios. Craving green spaces or culture? Head over to Pioneer Park — just one of the parks in San Francisco — or spend an afternoon at a museum, like De Young Museum. And from coworking spaces to storage units, you’ll find plenty of resources and activities nearby.

Top Parks in San Francisco

Pioneer Park

Corona Heights Park

Huntington Park

Mission Dolores Park

Ina Coolbrith Park

Top Museums in San Francisco

de Young Museum

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Legion of Honor

Wells Fargo Museum

Exploratorium

Top Cafes in San Francisco

Mazarine Coffee

Pinhole Coffee

Caffe Trieste

BeanStalk Cafe

Caffe Greco

Top Restaurants in San Francisco

Sunset Squares Slice Shop

Californios

Delancey Street Restaurant

Brenda's French Soul Food

Absinthe Brasserie & Bar

Top Bars in San Francisco

Alchemist Bar & Lounge

Blackbird

Mini Bar SF

The Snug

Smuggler's Cove

Apartment rentals San Francisco, CA FAQ

What is the average rent for 1 bedroom apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA?

The average rent for 1 bedroom apartments for rent in San Francisco is $2930 per month. There are 593 1 bedroom apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA.

What is the average rent for 2 bedroom apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA?

The average rent for 2 bedroom apartments for rent in San Francisco is $3880 per month. Currently, there are 454 2 bedroom apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA.

What is the average price for 3 bedroom apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA?

The average price for 3 bedroom apartments for rent in San Francisco is $4795 per month. As of today, there are 167 3 bedroom apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA.

How expensive is it to rent an apartment in San Francisco, CA?

The average rent price in San Francisco, CA for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3880 per month. San Francisco average rent price is above the average national apartment rent price which is $1750 per month. Aside from rent price, the cost of living in San Francisco is also important to know. Cost of living includes but is not limited to: groceries, gas, utilities, water, and electric.

What is the average size of an apartment in San Francisco, CA?

The average size of a 1 bedroom apartment rental in San Francisco is 562 square feet. The average size of a 2 bedroom apartment rental in San Francisco is 853 square feet. The average size of a 3 bedroom apartment rental in San Francisco is 1258 square feet.

Can I afford an apartment for rent in San Francisco, CA?

To help you better understand how much rent you can afford, check out Zumper's rent calculator. Our rent calculator can help you learn more about San Francisco average rent prices.

Looking for apartments in San Francisco, CA near you?

🔑Available apartment rentals	1,537
💰Best rent deal	574 3rd St
✨Popular amenities	, ,
🧦In-unit laundry
🍽With dishwasher
🏠With photos

Every month we review our top markets and provide insight, trends, top neighborhoods and more. You can view the rent report here.

For more in depth rent prices, check out our San Francisco, CA rent data, which covers average and median rents in San Francisco, CA.

To know how much rent you can afford in San Francisco, CA, use our rent affordability calculator.

If you're looking for a specific type of apartment near San Francisco, CA, use our helpful filters to find an apartment you will love!