These Are The Best Neighborhoods in San Francisco

Could it be the gold dust? Or the Summer of Love? Perhaps it’s the tech boom that makes this city one of the most visited in the whole of the United States? Whatever the culprit, there’s no denying that something magical happens on the streets of San Francisco. But then again, what else can you expect from a city that packs years of history into 49 vibrant square miles? A living, breathing organism that consistently reinvents itself while somehow remaining true to its niche, the City by the Bay has been divided and subdivided into hundreds of districts—you’ll realize they all have a distinct but sublime offering. As a result, the answer to which are the best neighborhoods in San Francisco ends up being different for everyone. 

These are The Best Neighborhoods to Live in San Francisco

Nob Hill

Median home price: $1,464,370

One of the most upscale neighborhoods you’ll find in San Francisco, Nob Hill exudes classiness right in the heart of the city. Full of luxurious hotels, Michelin-starred eateries, and world-renowned spas, this neighborhood is where the rich and famous come out to play.

North Beach

Median home price: $1,260,670

If you’re looking for a more casual kind of vibe, North Beach is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in San Francisco. With walking distance to both Chinatown and the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf, this neighborhood boasts a more relaxed atmosphere, as well as a thriving Little Italy.

SoMa

Median home price: $975,340

Located South of Market (hence the name), SoMa is arguably the coolest neighborhood in San Francisco—it’s also considered to be the cultural hub of the city. Here, you’ll find S.F.’s most popular museums, art galleries, breathtaking attractions, and buzzing nightlife.

Richmond

Median home price: $730,600

Richmond is your go-to neighborhood if you ever feel like the city buzz is a little too overwhelming—we’ve all been there. Plan an escape to the spectacular vistas brought to you by the Golden Gate Bridge; after all, it takes only a quick walk to get right back into the hustle and bustle of downtown.

Embarcadero

Median home price: $1,150,000

Fancy waterfront views from your apartment window? The Embarcadero is the place to go. Home to San Francisco’s most popular traditions—summertime concerts, foodie events, contemporary performances—the Embarcadero is a huge draw for students and young professionals alike.

Safest Neighborhoods in San Francisco

Excelsior

Median home price: $1,266,850

A quiet area located on the south side of the city, Excelsior boasts one of the most ethnically diverse populations in San Francisco. The neighborhood offers great public transportation and allows residents to easily move around via BART or buses—if walking everywhere is more your speed, Excelsior’s walkability score is through the roof.

Financial District

Median home price: $1,067,760

If the urban vibe is right up your alley, then you should definitely consider an apartment in the Financial District. On top of being one of the safest neighborhoods in San Francisco, this area is hugely popular with millennials and young professionals working their way up the tech and financial career ladder—their offices are right across the street from each other too.

Outer Sunset

Median home price: $1,615,840

For a suburban feel smack dab in the middle of the city, Outer Sunset is one of the best areas to live in San Francisco. Bordered by the Golden Gate Bridge to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the west, this neighborhood will never let you worry about not getting those natural, breathtaking vistas.

Oceanview

Median home price: $1,214,770

Oceanview is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in San Francisco for those looking to settle down. With great schools, affordable housing, and excellent public transportation, this neighborhood is like a little utopia squeezed into one of the greatest cities in the entire world—it’s a win, win if you ask us.

Bernal Heights

Median home price: $1,697,330

With high walkability scores, a warm, welcoming local community, and a few of the most beautiful Victorian-style homes you’ll find in San Francisco, Bernal Heights is the place to be. A hub for the LGBTQ+ community, Bernal Heights is brimming with indie galleries and eclectic coffee shops waiting to be discovered.

Nicest Neighborhoods in San Francisco

The Mission

Median home price: $1,419,010

The heart of San Francisco’s Latino and Hispanic culture, the Mission District is filled with more restaurants and art venues than you can probably count. You’ll get the chance to see excellent views of downtown if you go and spend time at Dolores Park. As far as cool neighborhoods in San Francisco go, this one is definitely a contender.

Sunset District

Median home price: $1,615,830

Do you think living like a local and leaving the crowds behind is impossible in San Francisco? The Sunset District will make you want to think again. One of the nicest neighborhoods in San Francisco, Sunset is affordable, safe, and a short walk from the ocean.

Presidio Heights 

Median home price: $4,940,850

Home to a vast park of the same name, Presidio Heights offers panoramic views that blend the beauty of S.F. with the natural vistas flooding in from the Marin Headlands. Living here means enjoying a lovely shopping experience along Clement Street and choosing from a diverse array of elegant brunch spots and eateries—this best neighborhood to live in San Francisco is family-tested and certified.