Most Affordable Neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in San Francisco are Lower Nob, Civic Center, and Western Addition. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in San Francisco, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of December 16, 2024, the average rent in San Francisco is $2,899, which is 1.7% higher than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.
Lower Nob
Average Rent
$2,895/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2%
TransitScore® Rating
98/100
Units Available
232 Rentals
Lower Nob is an affordable district that provides proximity to downtown without the high costs. Residents enjoy the area's various dining and entertainment options, including historic theatres and local eateries. They also love Lower Nob's walkability and access to cable cars, making navigating the city a total breeze.
Civic Center
Average Rent
$3,049/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.4%
TransitScore® Rating
100/100
Units Available
366 Rentals
Civic Center is an affordable neighborhood in the heart of San Francisco's cultural scene. This area is known as an entertainment hub, as it's home to world-renowned restaurants, several theaters, and museums. Here, residents can experience enriching entertainment and culinary options without breaking their budgets.
Western Addition
Average Rent
$3,074/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
9.7%
TransitScore® Rating
84/100
Units Available
46 Rentals
Western Addition combines affordability with a rich history highlighted by its classic Victorian homes. The neighborhood’s diverse culinary scene includes both traditional and contemporary dining options, and its proximity to public transit ensures easy access to the rest of San Francisco.
Nob Hill
Average Rent
$3,145/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.3%
TransitScore® Rating
93/100
Units Available
200 Rentals
Nob Hill exudes historic charm with its iconic cable cars and stunning architecture while offering reasonably priced rentals. Its elevated location provides breathtaking views of the cityscape and Bay, with local parks and upscale establishments adding to its allure.
Lower Pacific Heights
Average Rent
$3,198/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.3%
TransitScore® Rating
79/100
Units Available
54 Rentals
Lower Pacific Heights is a budget-friendly neighborhood that doesn't compromise on amenities. It's home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, providing residents with everything they need within walking distance. The area also features several parks, offering a green retreat in the heart of the city.
Bayview/Visitacion Valley
Average Rent
$3,218/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
6.2%
TransitScore® Rating
72/100
Units Available
74 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Francisco neighborhood on a budget, check out Bayview/Visitacion Valley. The average rent is $3,218, compared to the city average of $2,899. Rent prices have increased by 6.2%. Bayview/Visitacion Valley is convenient to UC San Francisco, Parnassus, Mission At Cesar Chavez, and Randall Museum. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 82.
SoMa
Average Rent
$3,267/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.7%
TransitScore® Rating
100/100
Units Available
399 Rentals
Known for its art scene, SoMa offers a unique renting experience with low living costs. The area is home to several museums and art galleries, providing cultural enrichment right at your doorstep. With its mix of residential and commercial properties, SoMa offers a balanced lifestyle for its residents.
Downtown San Francisco
Average Rent
$3,275/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.3%
TransitScore® Rating
92/100
Units Available
421 Rentals
Downtown San Francisco is an affordable neighborhood in San Francisco with an average rent price of $3,275. Compare this to the city average of $2,899. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 1.3%. Downtown San Francisco provides easy access to Mason And Pacific, UC San Francisco, Mount Zion, and Academy of Art University. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 99.
Richmond/Western Addition
Average Rent
$3,328/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.7%
TransitScore® Rating
75/100
Units Available
603 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Francisco, Richmond/Western Addition might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $3,328, while the city’s average stands at $2,899. In the last year, prices have decreased by 0.7%. Richmond/Western Addition is near Metro Oakland International, Irving St & 7Th Ave, and Japanese Tea Garden.
Cathedral Hill/Intermission
Average Rent
$3,474/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.2%
TransitScore® Rating
100/100
Units Available
115 Rentals
Cathedral Hill/Intermission is a budget-friendly neighborhood that's rich in culture. The area is home to several churches and cathedrals, adding a unique charm to the neighborhood. However, despite its cultural richness, the neighborhood remains affordable for renters.
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Methodology
Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.
We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.