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

Home to a population of over 900,000 people, San Francisco is a renowned city for its gorgeous views, breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge, grand cityscape, shopping centers, outdoor activities and job opportunities. The metropolis has something for everyone with alternatives that cater to all, from easily accessible public transit, budget friendly amenities to affordable places to live in the Bay Area

The Fog City draws in new residents each year thanks to its family-friendly charm, but the reality of San Francisco’s higher cost of living is no secret. This is why MovingWaldo has created a list of top 7 cheapest places to live in San Francisco with the best quality of life in 2024.

Methodology

We based our ranking of the 7 cheapest places to live in San Francisco on the median cost of buying a property in 2023, the median cost of rent for a 1-bed apartment in 2023, and the quality of life. We collected the property and rental data from Rocket Homes Real Estate Housing Market Reports and Zillow. To help you compare, the median home price in San Francisco  is $1,146,777 as of July 2023 and as of August 2023, the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $3000

The “Best quality of life” aspect is measured based on feedback from real people who have moved to this area in our database or real people from trusted online forums. More specifically, we look for positive feedback on job opportunities, quality of education, quality of healthcare, feeling of safety, public transportation, environment (cleanliness), as well as availability of recreational facilities and parks.

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Cheapest Neighborhoods to live in San Francisco

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1. Bayview

bayview park couple sf
  • Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,278
  • Median property buying cost: $906,500

Bayview has numerous playgrounds and parks, such as Hilltop Park and Adam Rogers Park, which provide ample green spaces for its residents. 

Locals praise Bayview for having the best weather in the city and being known for friendly and down-to-earth neighbors. They also added that if you want to be close to the downtown San Francisco, waterfront districts, and pier of San Francisco, the Bayview District is convenient.

As of  August 2023, the median cost of buying a property is $906,500, and the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,278, making it one of the cheapest places to live in San Francisco. 

Zillow Homes (August 2023) &  Zillow Rent (August 2023)

Bayview, San Francisco, CA

2. Visitacion Valley

Visitacion Valley, San Francisco
  • 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, they have easy access to green spaces like Coyote Trail and McLaren Park, which are best for outdoor activities like hiking and road biking.

Locals can explore the primary commercial district that is located along Leland Avenue, which is lined with Latino and Asian restaurants. This small neighborhood is near the Cow Palace, an indoor arena, and Candlestick Park, the former home of the San Francisco 49ers.

As of April 2023, the median cost of buying a property was $950,000, and the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment was $3,500 as of August 2023.

Rocket Homes (April 2023) & Zillow (August 2023)

Visitation Valley, San Francisco, CA

3. Inner Richmond

Inner Richmond, San Francisco
  • 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 hiking trails, rich historical landmarks and special designs.

Locals love Inner Richmond for its friendly atmosphere and chill vibes, not to mention the awesome shops, delicious food, and vibrant culture it offers. 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 cost of buying a property is $1,995,000, and the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,800. 

Zillow Homes (August 2023) & Zillow Rent (August 2023)

Inner Richmond, San Francisco, CA

4. Inner Sunset

Inner Sunset, San Francisco
  • Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,850
  • Median property buying cost: $1,159,116

Inner Sunset has a diverse community, which makes it a welcoming place for everyone. Locals enjoy easy access to coffee shops, a variety of parks nearby, including Golden Gate Park, which offers beautiful green spaces.

Locals also love to explore the Garden for the Environment because it helps promote an active lifestyle. Inner Sunset has a blend of residential tranquility and urban amenities, and it offers a delightful and balanced city living experience.

As of June 2023, the median cost of buying a property is $1,159,116, and the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,850 as of August 2023. 

Rocket Homes (June 2023) & Zillow (August 2023)

 

Inner Sunset, San Francisco, CA

5. Nob Hill

Cheapest Places to Live in San Francisco: Nob Hill
  • Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,995
  • Median property buying cost: $895,000

Nob Hill is a neighborhood in San Francisco that sits in the heart of the city. It offers great places where locals can enjoy eating and drinking while watching the views and landmarks. Since it’s in the middle of the city, it’s easy to get access to all the fun stuff that locals like, such as the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market.

It is home to the San Francisco Cable Car Museum and close to Willie “Woo Woo” Wong Playground and Broadway Tunnel West Mini Park, which offers ample outdoor activities. There are many restaurants, coffee shops, and fun things to do, which makes it great for families and retirees. 

As of August 2023, the median cost of buying a property is $895,000, and the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,995

Zillow Homes (August 2023) Zillow (August 2023)

Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA

6. Glen Park

Glen Park, San Francisco
  • 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. Locals appreciate Glen Canyon Park, which offers recreational opportunities, nature trails, and a peaceful escape from the bustling city. 

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 locals.

As of August 2023, the median cost of buying a property is $1,575,000, and the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $3,325. 

Zillow Homes (August 2023) & Zillow Rent (August 2023)

Glen Park, San Francisco, CA

7. Mission District

1. San Francisco, CA - Top 10 Most LGBT Friendly Cities in the US - 2022
  • Median 1-bed apt rent: $3,550
  • Median property buying cost: $1,146,777

The Mission District in San Francisco, or The Mission, is widely known for its murals and street art. It is named after San Francisco’s oldest building and is known today as a foodie destination, which locals enjoy.

Although there is no park in the Mission District itself, Dolores Park is just nearby. It’s a perfect place for families to gather and enjoy on a sunny day, plus it offers outstanding views of downtown San Francisco. 

It has old-fashioned places to get tasty Mexican food and unique clubs where you can listen to live music. There are also fancy restaurants run by skilled chefs and cozy lounges where they make special cocktails.

As of July 2023, the median cost of buying a property is $1,146,777, and the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $3,550 as of August 2023. 

Rocket Homes (July 2023) Zillow (August 2023)

Mission District, San Francisco, CA

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Conclusion

Moving to San Francisco doesn’t have to be a challenge, especially with careful planning, a certain amount of funds and determination. The city offers neighborhoods ideal for families, young professionals and singles – perfect for anyone looking for a new scenery. 

San Francisco is no doubt one of the nicest places to live in California. It takes time to choose the ideal neighborhoods in San Francisco for you and your family, so carefully consider this list before making the final decision. 

Are you planning on moving soon? Learn more about the best San Francisco Movers

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Ann Nacario

The author

Meet Ann – our head writer with a knack for making moving and city living a breeze. From the many details of moving to picking the perfect moving company, she’s your guide. Ann has a friendly yet detailed approach to ensure your move goes off without a hitch. When she’s not writing about relocation, it will always be on her mind, but you’ll catch her spending time with her three furry friends.
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