Apartments for Rent in San Francisco, CA
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San Francisco, CA in the News

How Much Apartment Space Does $1,500 Get You in America’s 100 Largest Cities

While a larger apartment with more amenities might seem appealing, many city-dwellers are willing to give up that extra space for the hustle and bustle of major urban conclaves. In fact, in San Francisco, CA, $1,500 will get you less than 400 square feet — which only leaves renters in this budget range with the option of a larger apartment shared with roommates. However, another option is a micro-unit — a concept that’s become increasingly popular as apartment developers figure out different ways of making more budget-friendly rental apartments available in the hottest renter hubs.

Trendiest Zoomer Hotspots in 2022: Gen Z Renters Are Giving Big Cities a Glow Up

The first group of true digital natives is flocking to the home of technological innovation: San Francisco. And, they’re not only breaking into the tech industry of Silicon Valley — they’re doing it with a bang. The #1 trendiest city for Generation Z, San Francisco logged the greatest increase in Zoomers who moved into new apartments in 2021, at 101%. By doubling its share of Gen Z rental applicants, the Golden City seems ready for a revamp — and this young cohort is set on taking the tech world to the next level.

Despite Challenges, 2021 New Apartment Construction Tops 330,000 for Fifth Consecutive Year

Two large metros with about 4.5 million residents each that have been dealing with a housing shortage for years, Boston and San Francisco — which are lower on the list with only 8,455 and 7,872 new apartments, respectively — are set to open in 2021. San Francisco is among metros that are set to beat their own records, along with Tampa, FL; San Jose; Kansas City, MO; and Raleigh, NC. With an increase of at least 36% in the number of new units compared to last year, all of them are planning to deliver between 5,000 and 8,000 new apartments.

The Great Return: Renters Jumpstart Large Cities with Surge in Applications in 2021

The 2021 rental season kicked off twice as strong as usual, with Gen Z and high-earning Millennials being the most active apartment hunters. In particular, New York City and San Francisco saw an astounding interest in apartments during the first half of 2021. San Francisco had the second-highest increase in renters moving in. 79% more people applied for rentals in San Francisco in the first half od 2021, compared to 2020.

Year-End Report 2020: Rental Season Delayed and Cut Short, Gen Z Renters Overtake Gen X, and Big City Rents Drop

In San Francisco, more renters moved out in 2020 than in previous years. At the same time, San Francisco’s average rent saw the fastest yearly decrease, plummeting to $3,055 after a 17.3% yearly drop. As remote work became more prevalent, apartments close to the hottest areas for San Francisco office space saw drops in demand.

The Best Cities for Millennial Renters: Austin Challenges Seattle for the Throne

San Francisco has been the second hottest city for Millennials in the last half-decade, with a 48.7% share of Millennials who applied for rent in SF. The epicenter of the U.S. tech boom, the Bay Area city had the second-fastest-growing incomes in the nation in the last 10 years (up 56.6%), so it continues to attract young professionals looking for prosperous employment and upscale living — despite being one of the priciest markets in the U.S. San Francisco is at its most popular by far among New York Millennial renters (8.2%), likely because New York is the only city in the nation with a higher cost of living than the tech boomtown. San Francisco attracted its second and third largest shares of Gen Ys from fellow Bay Area hubs Mountain View (6.9%) and San Jose (5.9%).

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Frequently Asked Questions

When were prices and availability in San Francisco, CA last updated?

Prices and availability in San Francisco, CA were last updated on 11 Aug 2022.

What are the best apartments in San Francisco, CA?

The best apartments in San Francisco, CA are: 535 Leavenworth, 1028 Sacramento, 1424-1428 POLK Apartments, 1484-1490 GOLDEN GATE AVENUE and 146 McAllister St..

What is the average rent in San Francisco, CA?

The average rent in San Francisco, CA is $3,397. Start your search for apartments in San Francisco, CA now.

What is the price range for a studio apartment in San Francisco, CA?

The price range for a studio apartment in San Francisco, CA is between $995 and $9,405. View all studio apartments in San Francisco, CA.

What is the price range for a 1-bedroom apartment in San Francisco, CA?

The price range for a 1-bedroom apartment in San Francisco, CA is between $950 and $9,295. Browse all available 1-bedroom apartments in San Francisco, CA now.

What is the price range for a 2-bedroom apartment in San Francisco, CA?

The price range for a 2-bedroom apartment in San Francisco, CA is between $995 and $9,500. Browse and find a 2-bedroom apartment in San Francisco, CA.

What is the price range for a 3-bedroom apartment in San Francisco, CA?

The price range for a 3-bedroom apartment in San Francisco, CA is between $995 and $15,130. Browse all available 3-bedroom apartments in San Francisco, CA.

Renter's guide to San Francisco, CA

As you cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and make your way into the city of San Francisco, you can't help but be amazed!

This is a city that truly has it all. There's the booming tech scene, the great weather, the amazing local restaurants, and the famous sports teams. And we're just getting started! Whether you're considering a move here or just curious to find out more, you'll want to keep reading.

The population of San Francisco is just north of 850,000, which makes it the 4^th largest city in California. For reference, let's look at it side-by-side with some of the country's other major cities. How big is San Francisco compared to New York City, for example? Well, it comes in at about 10% the size of NYC and 20% the size of Los Angeles. On the other hand, San Fran is almost twice as big as Atlanta or Miami. In short, it's a big city – but not too big. And for many people, that's a good thing.

The city is located just 383 miles from Los Angeles and 503 miles from San Diego – a little less if you're flying. Meanwhile, San Jose is just a quick 48 miles away, and Oakland is right across the bridge.

Like many California cities, San Francisco benefits from a Mediterranean climate, with cool summers and mild winters. Temperatures tend to hover between about 50º F and 80º F year round. In fact, San Francisco has rather chilly winters, partially due to the city's famous fog, which helps keep the sun at bay. The city also gets plenty of wind, but not much rain.

San Francisco, CA Demographics

Total Population874,784
Female 446,246

Male 428,538
Median Age38.3

San Francisco, CA has a population of 874,784 according to the most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau. 428,538 of San Francisco’s residents are women and 446,246 are men. The median age of those who live in San Francisco, CA is 38.3.

Cost of Living in San Francisco, CA

San Francisco is not the most budget-friendly city. Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant will run you an average of $70. A domestic beer will set you back about $6.

Of course, you can always save a little money by taking public transportation. Bus or rail fare is $2.25 per ride, while a ride on one of the city's famous cable cars is $7. Monthly bus passes are available too, offering unlimited rides for $70 to $83.

With the city's cool weather, plenty of people choose to bike their way around town, and there's a great bicycle sharing program in place. Just rent a bike at point A and drop it off at point B. Membership rates are $9 for a day, $30 for a month, and $88 for a year.

Taxis are abundant in San Francisco too, if you're in a hurry and don't mind spending the extra cash.

As for your actual bills, the average San Francisco resident pays around $112 in utilities for a 915-square-foot apartment – that includes electricity, water, heating, and garbage.

Average Rent in San Francisco, CA

San Francisco, CA Average Rental Price, July 2022 $3,397 ^/mo

The average monthly rent of apartments in San Francisco, CA is $3,397.

San Francisco, CA Apartment Rent Ranges

About 7% of apartment rents in San Francisco, CA range between $1,501-$2,000. Meanwhile, apartments priced over > $2,000 represent 90% of apartments. Around 3% of San Francisco’s apartments are in the $1,001-$1,500 price range. 1% of apartments are priced between $701-$1,000.

San Francisco, CA Rent Trends

Average Rent	Mar / 2019	Jul / 2019	Nov / 2019	Mar / 2020	Jul / 2020	Nov / 2020	Mar / 2021	Jul / 2021	Nov / 2021	Mar / 2022	Jul / 2022
San Francisco, CA	$3,623	$3,706	$3,683	$3,667	$3,426	$3,055	$2,879	$3,072	$3,244	$3,230	$3,397
National	$1,375	$1,407	$1,415	$1,416	$1,406	$1,410	$1,418	$1,501	$1,596	$1,634	$1,706

Compared to the national average rent of $1,706, the average rent in San Francisco, CA is $3,397.

Check out the average rent prices in San Francisco by neighborhood.

Living in San Francisco, CA

When it comes to living in San Francisco, there are plenty of things to love – and a few to dislike too.

Unfortunately, the city does have a high number of homeless, the sometimes chilly weather isn't for everyone, and finding a parking spot can be a challenge.

But despite the drawbacks, the city presents a unique blend of culture, tech savviness, and active lifestyle options. Whether you love food, sports, or art, there's something for you.

It's no surprise then that San Francisco is one of the country's most ethnically diverse cities, attracting people from all walks of life – Asians and Latinos, in particular.

Things to do in San Francisco, CA

There's so much to do in San Francisco, you'll have trouble getting to it all.

If you're looking for a little time outdoors, there's always the famous Golden Gate Park, where you can take a stroll or play a quick game of catch. Inside the park, you'll also find the oldest Japanese tea garden in the country.

For even more outdoor adventures, there's the Twin Peaks, two large hills that are a favorite among local hikers. While you're at it, you can start training for the San Francisco Marathon, an annual event that attracts over 25,000 runners.

If you'd rather watch the pros do all the work, San Francisco has two major professional sports teams – the San Francisco Giants baseball team and San Francisco 49ers football team.

Either would make a great choice for a family outing. But your kids will love the San Francisco zoo too, if that's more your thing.

When you're in the mood to shop 'til you drop, there's the Westfield San Francisco Centre shopping mall and Embarcadero Center, for something a little more mid-range to upscale; or the Treasure Island Flea Market, if you're looking for a little more character and simplicity.

Oh, did we mention food? San Francisco is home to some of best restaurants in the country – and to a lot of them. Only New York has more Michelin-starred restaurants.

The city's culinary scene is one of the reasons San Francisco is considered one of the most culturally rich places in the US. But for even more culture, there's the San Francisco Symphony or the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

San Francisco, CA employment & economy

San Francisco is the biggest tech hub in the entire country. Ever heard of Silicon Valley? Well, it's part of the San Francisco Bay Area.

This means residents in the tech field have no shortage of job options, whether looking to join absolute giants like Google, Apple, Twitter, Facebook, and AirBnb, or any of the hundreds of tech startups that pop up in San Francisco daily.

Of course, with so many restaurants and hotels in town, there are plenty of job opportunities in the service industry as well.

San Francisco, CA Households

Total Number of Households362,141
Family 170,665

Non-family 191,476
Children 66,872

No Children 295,269

Average People Per Household2.36
Median Household Income$119,136
Median Housing Costs Per Month$2,189

According to U.S. Census data, there are 362,141 households in San Francisco, CA. 170,665 are family households and 191,476 are non-family households. There are 66,872 households with children in San Francisco and 295,269 households without children. On average, about 2.36 people live in a household in San Francisco, CA. The median income of a San Francisco household living in San Francisco is $119,136 per year. The median housing costs per month are $2,189.

Education in San Francisco, CA

Just outside of San Francisco's city proper – but still within the San Francisco Bay Area – are two particularly prestigious schools, Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley.

But those aren't the only education options in San Francisco. There's also Santa Clara University, University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and the University of California, San Francisco.

San Francisco, CA Education Statistics

The level of education of the population of San Francisco, CA is as follows: 6% have no high school education, 16% completed some high school, 16% partially completed college, 5% have an Associate Degree, 34% have a Bachelor Degree, and 22% have a Graduate Degree.

Tips for renting in San Francisco, CA

If you're moving to San Francisco from Los Angeles, you'll quickly find relief in the city's slightly slower pace. And the healthier lifestyles of the locals is a nice refresher too.

Of course, you'll need to stay on top of the renters’ rights and laws here.

To balance the high cost of living, San Francisco law provides rent control, which only allows landlords to raise rent by a certain amount each year. The amount is tied to inflation.

You can even petition the Rent Board for a rent decrease if the landlord isn't providing things you agreed to, like storage space or a washer and dryer.

Landlord asked you to move? If you're a rent controlled tenant, you're probably covered. Landlords are only allowed to evict you for one of 16 “just causes”. You can dispute most of these, and the ones you can't require the landlord to provide relocation payments.

If you are evicted, you can expect it to take a month or two from the time you're given your eviction notice.

You also have protection against landlords who fail to provide repairs and the like. You can move out, sue, withhold rent, or make the repairs yourself and deduct it from your rent.

Like the rest of California, security deposits can be a maximum of two months’ rent and must be returned by the landlord within 21 days of your move-out.

Most Expensive Rental
Presidio Residences East $1,350 - $18,285
Least Expensive Rental
FOUND Study Nob Hill $950 - $2,000

RentCafe is your one-stop shop for finding a great new apartment in San Francisco, CA. Easily search through a wide selection of apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA, and view detailed information about available rentals including floor plans, pricing, photos, amenities, interactive maps, and thorough property descriptions. Property owners and managers are one click away, so feel free to contact them and find out all you need to know about the apartment you’re interested in. Browse San Francisco, CA apartments with rents starting from $1,395 and submit your rental application today!

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Apartments for Rent in San Francisco, CA 1,483 Rentals Available

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