Top 7 Best neighborhoods to live in San Francisco with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Crime rate: 129.57 crimes per 1,000 people (Sunset District)
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $4,875
• Median property buying cost: $1,388,000

Locals mention that Parkside is peaceful compared to downtown, attracting residents who seek a calm and welcoming atmosphere. They also added that it is close to Ocean Beach and within walking distance of several stores if locals want to shop, visit the playgrounds, and park.

Parkside has access to parks like Stern Grove, Carl Larsen Park, Ocean Park, and Pine Lake Park which offers ample of outdoor activities. It offers a convenient location with easy access to public transportation, diverse food and shopping options along Taraval Street.

For safety, there are about 129.57 crimes for every 1,000 people, making it a smart choice for those people seeking a safer neighborhood.

As of July 2023, the median property buying cost is approximately $1,388,000 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is around $4,875 as of July 2023.

Zillow Homes (July 2023), Zillow Rent (August 2023), City data (2020) & SF Dashboard (2022)

• Crime rate: 598.68 crimes per 1,000 people (Tenderloin District)
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,995
• Median property buying cost: $2,485,000

Hayes Valley is an attractive and delightful neighborhood that is renowned for its high-end boutiques.

Its central location provides easy access to multiple amenities. The area is known for its beautiful parks, including Patricia’s Green and Hayes Valley Playground, which has an eco-friendly clubhouse. 

Hayes Valley has coffee shops that residents can enjoy like Na Ya Dessert Café, Ritual Coffee Roasters, and La Boulangerie de San Francisco, Hayes. 

This neighborhood is praised by locals for its vibrant atmosphere, convenient amenities like grocery stores, bookstores, and cafes, all of which perfectly fit their lifestyle.

As of June 2023, the median property buying cost is $2,485,000, and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,995 as of August 2023. For safety, it has a total of 598.68 crimes per 1,000 people. 

Rocket Homes (June 2023), Zillow Rent (August 2023), City data (2020) & SF Dashboard 2022

• Crime rate: 166.08 crimes per 1,000 people (Bayview District)
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,278
• Median property buying cost: $906,500

Bayview is one of the best neighborhoods in San Francisco, with numerous playgrounds and parks, such as Hilltop Park and Adam Rogers Park, where they can do activities that promote an outdoor lifestyle. 

Locals praise Bayview for having the best weather in the city because it is sunny but not uncomfortably hot. If you want to be close to the downtown, waterfront districts, and pier of San Francisco, the Bayview District is convenient.

If you’re thinking about moving to Bayview, locals suggest avoiding streets like Quesada and 3rd Street. It’s a good idea to take some security precautions and avoid drawing attention to valuable items at all times. Additionally, car owners should be aware that some streets have cars parked on both sides overnight, making it difficult for other vehicles to pass through.

As of June 2023, the median property buying cost is approximately $906,500, and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is around $2,278 as of August 2023. For safety, it has a total of 166.08 crimes per 1,000 people.

Zillow Homes (August 2023), Zillow Rent (August 2023), City data (2020) & SF Dashboard (2022)

• Crime rate: 610.92 crimes per 1,000 people (Ingleside District)
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $3,325
• Median property buying cost: $1,575,000

Glen Park is located south of Twin Peaks and adjacent to Glen Canyon Park.

Residents appreciate Glen Canyon Park, which offers recreational opportunities, nature trails, and a peaceful escape from the bustling city. The area has the Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of Arts, and the owner is a fierce advocate for arts education.

Additionally, there are various local recreational facilities, such as community centers and sports fields like Glen Park Recreation Center and Soccer Fields, ensuring an active and engaging lifestyle for its residents. 

Glen Park’s friendly and family-oriented atmosphere, coupled with its pet-friendly environment, make it one of San Francisco’s top neighborhoods to live in.

As of August 2023, the median property buying cost is approximately $1,575,000, and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is around $3,325. For safety, it has a total of 610.92 crimes per 1,000 people. 

Zillow Homes (August 2023), Zillow Rent (August 2023), City data (2020) & SF Dashboard 2022

• Crime rate: 245.07 crimes per 1,000 people (Richmond District)
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,800
• Median property buying cost: $1,995,000

The charming neighborhood of Inner Richmond is nestled between the Presidio, a serene national park known for its picturesque vistas, scenic trails, and rich historical and architectural landmarks.

Locals love Inner Richmond for its friendly atmosphere and chill vibes, not to mention the awesome shops, delicious food, and vibrant culture it offers.

George Peabody Elementary School and Rosenberg Early Childhood Center are the schools located in Inner Richmond. Locals admire Inner Richmond’s convenient location and the presence of various local businesses like Tastebuds and Cinderella Bakery & Café.

As of August 2023, the median property buying cost is $1,995,000, and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,800 as of July 2023. For safety, it has a total of 245.07 crimes per 1,000 people.

Zillow Homes (August 2023), Zillow Rent (July 2023), City data (2020) & SF Dashboard 2022

• Crime rate: 111.09 crimes per 1,000 people (Taraval District)
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,850
• Median property buying cost: $1,159,116

Inner Sunset has a diverse community because it consists of a multitude of people from different backgrounds and cultures, which makes it a welcoming place for everyone.

Locals like its proximity to Golden Gate Park, has abundant food choices, and reasonable distance to Ocean Beach which encourages an active lifestyle. The presence of recreational facilities like the Garden for the Environment further supports this. 

In Inner Sunset, locals frequently see families wandering down the street and children playing at treat stores after school. They mention that it is a kind of neighborhood one feels comfortable walking at night.

As of June 2023, the median property buying cost is approximately $1,159,116, and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is around $2,850 as of August 2023. For safety, it has a total of 111.09 crimes per 1,000 people. 

Rocket Homes (June 2023), Zillow (August 2023), City data (2020) & SF Dashboard (2022)

• Crime rate: 124.71 crimes per 1,000 people (Bayview District)
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $3,500
• Median property buying cost: $950,000

Visitacion Valley, locally known as Viz Valley, is a sunny and friendly neighborhood. According to locals, it has access to beautiful green spaces like Coyote Trail and McLaren Park.

The primary commercial district is located along Leland Avenue, which is lined with Latino and Asian restaurants. Locals can also enjoy different activities in this area, such as the Visitacion Valley Greenway Children’s Play Garden and Agriculture Lot, Visitacion Valley Playground, and Visitacion Valley Baseball Field.

Moreover, this area is home to the John King senior neighborhood, a senior-restricted rental community offered to seniors with earnings below 50% of the median income in the area. For safety, it has a relatively low crime rate, with a total of 124.71 crimes per 1,000 people.

As of April 2023, the median property buying cost is approximately $950,000, and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is around $3,500 as of August 2023. The neighborhood offers an easy commute to both the South Bay and downtown San Francisco, making it one of the best neighborhoods to live in San Francisco.

Rocket Homes (April 2023), Zillow (August 2023), City data (2020) & SF Dashboard 2022