Top 20 San Francisco neighborhoods. The emoji-friendly guide 🌉🌁
April 17, 2023
· 14 min read
San Francisco offers a diverse range of neighborhoods with unique personalities and attractions. From historic architecture and stunning views to vibrant cultures and access to parks and outdoor recreation, there is something for everyone in this eclectic city. This guide provides an overview of the 20 best neighborhoods in San Francisco. Each neighborhood is described in terms of what it is famous for, what kind of people live there, what to do and see there, what kind of businesses are there, and how much housing costs.
- Pacific Heights 🏡
- Why live there: Pacific Heights is known for its stunning views, historic architecture, and proximity to the waterfront.
- People: Pacific Heights is home to affluent families and young professionals.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: Pacific Heights is home to the Lyon Street Steps, the Fillmore Street shopping district, and the Presidio.
- Famous for: Stunning views and historic architecture.
- Businesses: Pacific Heights has a mix of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
- Median house pricing: $4.2 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,400. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,200. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,500.
- Public transportation: Pacific Heights is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Marina 🏖️
- Why live there: The Marina is known for its picturesque waterfront, outdoor recreation opportunities, and vibrant nightlife.
- People: The Marina is home to young professionals and families.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: The Marina is home to the Palace of Fine Arts, the Marina Green, and the Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture.
- Famous for: Picturesque waterfront and vibrant nightlife.
- Businesses: The Marina has a mix of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
- Median house pricing: $3.4 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,500. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,500. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $5,000.
- Public transportation: The Marina is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Nob Hill 🌃
- Why live there: Nob Hill is known for its historic architecture, stunning views, and upscale lifestyle.
- People: Nob Hill is home to affluent families and young professionals.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: Nob Hill is home to the Grace Cathedral, the Cable Car Museum, and the Fairmont Hotel.
- Famous for: Historic architecture and stunning views.
- Businesses: Nob Hill has a mix of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
- Median house pricing: $2.7 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,200. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,000. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,500.
- Public transportation: Nob Hill is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Russian Hill 🚶
- Why live there: Russian Hill is known for its steep hills, charming streets, and breathtaking views.
- People: Russian Hill is home to young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: Russian Hill is home to the Lombard Street, the San Francisco Art Institute, and the Macondray Lane.
- Famous for: Steep hills and breathtaking views.
- Businesses: Russian Hill has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops.
- Median house pricing: $2.4 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,000. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,800. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,200.
- Public transportation: Russian Hill is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Presidio 🌳
- Why live there: The Presidio is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and historic landmarks.
- People: The Presidio is home to families, young professionals, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: The Presidio is home to the Golden Gate Bridge, the Walt Disney Family Museum, and the Presidio Officers' Club.
- Famous for: Scenic beauty and historic landmarks.
- Businesses: The Presidio has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops.
- Median house pricing: $2.7 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,400. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,300. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,700.
- Public transportation: The Presidio is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Castro 🏳️🌈
- Why live there: The Castro is known for its LGBTQ+ community, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.
- People: The Castro is home to LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, as well as young professionals and families.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a large LGBTQ+ community and a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: The Castro is home to the Castro Theatre, the GLBT History Museum, and the Harvey Milk Plaza.
- Famous for: LGBTQ+ community and historic landmarks.
- Businesses: The Castro has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, with a focus on LGBTQ+ culture.
- Median house pricing: $1.9 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,000. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,900. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,200.
- Public transportation: The Castro is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Haight-Ashbury 🌸
- Why live there: Haight-Ashbury is known for its counterculture history, bohemian vibe, and artistic scene.
- People: Haight-Ashbury is home to artists, musicians, and young professionals.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Haight-Ashbury is home to the Haight-Ashbury district, the Buena Vista Park, and the Red Victorian Bed & Breakfast.
- Famous for: Counterculture history and bohemian vibe.
- Businesses: Haight-Ashbury has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, with a focus on artistic and bohemian culture.
- Median house pricing: $1.8 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,000. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,900. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,200.
- Public transportation: Haight-Ashbury is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Inner Richmond 🌳
- Why live there: Inner Richmond is known for its quiet streets, scenic beauty, and access to outdoor recreation.
- People: Inner Richmond is home to families, young professionals, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Inner Richmond is home to the Golden Gate Park, the de Young Museum, and the California Palace of the Legion of Honor.
- Famous for: Quiet streets and access to outdoor recreation.
- Businesses: Inner Richmond has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops.
- Median house pricing: $1.7 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,100. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,900. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,200.
- Public transportation: Inner Richmond is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Outer Sunset 🏖️
- Why live there: Outer Sunset is known for its beautiful beaches, quiet streets, and access to outdoor recreation.
- People: Outer Sunset is home to families, young professionals, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Outer Sunset is home to Ocean Beach, Golden Gate Park, and the San Francisco Zoo.
- Famous for: Beautiful beaches and access to outdoor recreation.
- Businesses: Outer Sunset has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops.
- Median house pricing: $1.5 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,000. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,800. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,900.
- Public transportation: Outer Sunset is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- North Beach 🍝
- Why live there: North Beach is known for its Italian heritage, charming streets, and vibrant nightlife.
- People: North Beach is home to young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: North Beach is home to the City Lights Bookstore, Washington Square Park, and the Coit Tower.
- Famous for: Italian heritage and vibrant nightlife.
- Businesses: North Beach has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and bars, with a focus on Italian culture.
- Median house pricing: $2.2 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,300. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,200. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,800.
- Public transportation: North Beach is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Mission District 🌮
- Why live there: The Mission District is known for its vibrant Latino culture, street art, and food scene.
- People: The Mission District is home to young professionals, artists, and families.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly Hispanic/Latino, but there is also a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: The Mission District is home to the Clarion Alley Mural Project, the Mission Dolores Park, and the Roxie Theater.
- Famous for: Latino culture, street art, and food scene.
- Businesses: The Mission District has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and cafes, with a focus on Latino culture.
- Median house pricing: $1.5 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,200. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,100. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,500.
- Public transportation: The Mission District is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Inner Sunset 🍲
- Why live there: Inner Sunset is known for its quiet streets, access to Golden Gate Park, and Asian food scene.
- People: Inner Sunset is home to families, young professionals, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a large Asian population and a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Inner Sunset is home to the Golden Gate Park, the de Young Museum, and the California Palace of the Legion of Honor.
- Famous for: Quiet streets, access to Golden Gate Park, and Asian food scene.
- Businesses: Inner Sunset has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, with a focus on Asian culture.
- Median house pricing: $1.6 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,100. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,900. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,200.
- Public transportation: Inner Sunset is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Hayes Valley 🛍️
- Why live there: Hayes Valley is known for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- People: Hayes Valley is home to young professionals and families.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Hayes Valley is home to the San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center, the Patricia's Green park, and the Proxy Project.
- Famous for: Upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- Businesses: Hayes Valley has a mix of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
- Median house pricing: $1.8 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,500. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,500. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,900.
- Public transportation: Hayes Valley is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Alamo Square 🏠
- Why live there: Alamo Square is known for its historic Victorian architecture, stunning views, and access to parks.
- People: Alamo Square is home to families, young professionals, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Alamo Square is home to the Painted Ladies, the Alamo Square Park, and the Buena Vista Park.
- Famous for: Historic Victorian architecture, stunning views, and access to parks.
- Businesses: Alamo Square has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops.
- Median house pricing: $2.5 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,400. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,300. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,700.
- Public transportation: Alamo Square is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Lower Haight 🎭
- Why live there: Lower Haight is known for its bohemian vibe, eclectic nightlife, and small businesses.
- People: Lower Haight is home to artists, musicians, and young professionals.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Lower Haight is home to the Black Cat, the Lower Haight Art Walk, and the Duboce Park.
- Famous for: Bohemian vibe, eclectic nightlife, and small businesses.
- Businesses: Lower Haight has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and bars.
- Median house pricing: $1.9 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,100. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,900. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,200.
- Public transportation: Lower Haight is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Pacific Heights 🌉
- Why live there: Pacific Heights is known for its luxurious homes, stunning views, and upscale shopping and dining options.
- People: Pacific Heights is home to families, young professionals, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: Pacific Heights is home to the Lyon Street Steps, the Alta Plaza Park, and the Fillmore Street shopping district.
- Famous for: Luxurious homes, stunning views, and upscale shopping and dining options.
- Businesses: Pacific Heights has a mix of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
- Median house pricing: $5.6 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,900. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,900. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $5,700.
- Public transportation: Pacific Heights is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Bernal Heights 🌿
- Why live there: Bernal Heights is known for its community feel, access to parks, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
- People: Bernal Heights is home to families, young professionals, and artists.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Bernal Heights is home to the Bernal Heights Park, the Alemany Farmers' Market, and the Cortland Avenue shopping district.
- Famous for: Community feel, access to parks, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Businesses: Bernal Heights has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and cafes.
- Median house pricing: $1.6 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,200. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,000. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,400.
- Public transportation: Bernal Heights is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Noe Valley 🍷
- Why live there: Noe Valley is known for its wine bars, family-friendly atmosphere, and access to parks.
- People: Noe Valley is home to families, young professionals, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Noe Valley is home to the Noe Valley Farmers Market, the Douglass Playground, and the 24th Street shopping district.
- Famous for: Wine bars, family-friendly atmosphere, and access to parks.
- Businesses: Noe Valley has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops.
- Median house pricing: $2.4 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,500. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,400. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,800.
- Public transportation: Noe Valley is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Potrero Hill 🌆
- Why live there: Potrero Hill is known for its views of the city, quiet streets, and access to parks.
- People: Potrero Hill is home to families, young professionals, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Potrero Hill is home to the Potrero Hill Neighborhood House, the Anchor Brewing Company, and the Potrero Hill Rec Center.
- Famous for: Views of the city, quiet streets, and access to parks.
- Businesses: Potrero Hill has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and cafes.
- Median house pricing: $1.9 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,400. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,300. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,800.
- Public transportation: Potrero Hill is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Twin Peaks 🌅
- Why live there: Twin Peaks is known for its stunning views, access to parks, and quiet streets.
- People: Twin Peaks is home to families, young professionals, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Twin Peaks is home to the Twin Peaks Summit, the Midtown Terrace Playground, and the Sutro Tower.
- Famous for: Stunning views, access to parks, and quiet streets.
- Businesses: Twin Peaks has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and cafes.
- Median house pricing: $1.8 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,300. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,200. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,500.
- Public transportation: Twin Peaks is served by several Muni bus lines and is pedestrian-friendly.
The final notes
If you're looking to relocate to San Francisco and want to research the city's neighborhoods, here are 10 factors to consider along with an emoji for each:
- Affordability 💰 San Francisco is known for its high cost of living, so it's important to consider the median house pricing and rental rates in each neighborhood.
- Accessibility 🚇 Consider the public transportation options available in each neighborhood to make sure you can easily get around the city.
- Community 🏘️ Each neighborhood in San Francisco has a unique feel and culture, so consider what kind of community you want to be a part of.
- Diversity 🌈 San Francisco is a diverse city, so consider what kind of diversity you want in your neighborhood.
- Food 🍽️ San Francisco is known for its food scene, so consider the types of restaurants and cuisine available in each neighborhood.
- Nightlife 🌃 If you enjoy going out at night, consider the nightlife options available in each neighborhood.
- Outdoor Recreation 🌳 San Francisco has a lot of parks and outdoor recreation opportunities, so consider the access to nature and outdoor activities in each neighborhood.
- Pet-friendliness 🐶 If you have a pet, consider the pet-friendliness of each neighborhood, including access to dog parks and pet-friendly businesses.
- Safety 🚔 Safety is always an important factor to consider when choosing a neighborhood, so look up crime rates and safety statistics for each area.
- Walkability 🚶 San Francisco is a very walkable city, so consider the pedestrian-friendliness of each neighborhood, including sidewalks, crosswalks, and foot traffic.
🌉 With its unique neighborhoods, diverse communities, and abundant attractions, San Francisco has something for everyone. By considering these factors, you can find the neighborhood that best fits your lifestyle and needs.