Renter Resources
How to Negotiate Rent: 7 Proven Strategies That Get Results
Negotiating rent can save you hundreds or thousands annually, but most renters never try.
•11 min read
What to Know About
Living in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco, a vibrant city full of diversity and innovation, is a top destination for anyone seeking excitement and adventure. With its picturesque location in the Bay Area, San Francisco is home to many landmarks showcasing its rich history, including the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, notorious Alcatraz Island, the twisting Lombard Street, and the bustling Pier 39 and Fisherman's Wharf. The city also offers abundant opportunities for nature enthusiasts, such as the sprawling Golden Gate Park and the scenic Presidio.
Sports fans will find plenty to cheer about with professional teams like the San Francisco 49ers (NFL), San Francisco Giants (MLB), and Golden State Warriors (NBA) that call the city home. The city also offers a unique blend of culture and athleticism with exciting events like the San Francisco International Film Festival and the Bay to Breakers race. San Francisco's lively nightlife, world-class restaurants, and eclectic shops offer something for everyone. Indulge in the many renowned restaurants or explore the chic shops of Union Square. Take a cable car ride or stroll through Chinatown to experience multiculturalism.
San Francisco is an ideal place to call home with its abundance of exciting activities, stable economy, and breathtaking sights.
Rental Market Trends
San Francisco, CA
As of May 2025, San Francisco's rental market is competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units. San Francisco's average rent is 30.7% ($756) higher than the California average of $2,461 and 79.4% ($1,424) higher than the U.S. average of $1,793.
Average Rent
$3,217
Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change
2% ($67)
Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
4.3% ($132)
Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
39
| Unit Type | Average Rent | Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change | Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bed | $2,541 | 1.3% ($34) | 2.6% ($69) |
| 2 Beds | $3,994 | 1.1% ($44) | 22.3% ($729) |
| 3 Beds | $4,956 | 7% ($324) | 4.3% ($203) |
| Nearby Cities | Average Rent | Avg. Rent vs. San FranciscoAverage Rent vs. San Francisco | Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brisbane | $2,631 | 18.2% ($586) | 33 days |
| Daly City | $3,074 | 4.4% ($143) | 32 days |
| Sausalito | $3,163 | 1.7% ($54) | 32 days |
| South San Francisco | $3,411 | 6% ($194) | 34 days |
| Belvedere Tiburon | $5,886 | 83% ($2669) | 30 days |
Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.
Frequently Asked Questions
San Francisco Rental Market FAQs
Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in San Francisco, CA.
The average rent in San Francisco, CA is $3,217 per month.
Apartments in San Francisco typically rent for between $1,779 and $6,443 per month, with an average of $3,217 per month.
In San Francisco, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,541 per month, for a 2-bedroom apartment, $3,994 per month, and a 3-bedroom apartment is $4,956 per month.
The average rent in San Francisco is 79.4% ($1,424) higher than the national average of $1,793 per month.
The average rent in San Francisco has decreased by 2.0% ($67) in the last month and increased by 4.3% ($132) over the past year.
The rental market in San Francisco, CA, is currently competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units.
In San Francisco, CA, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 39 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.
There are currently 883 rental properties available in San Francisco, CA.
Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $159,760 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom apartment in San Francisco.
