San Francisco, often hailed as one of the world's most geographically blessed cities, packs a punch despite its modest size. Families hunting for great schools and green spaces can set their sights on gems like Noe Valley or the peaceful Pacific Heights. Meanwhile, singles looking for action-packed nights and endless adventures will feel right at home in spots like SoMa or the iconic Haight-Ashbury. One of the most challenging parts of moving in general is making new friends. But you don’t have to worry. There're a bunch of meetups and events that happen throughout the city throughout the year and so you will be able to meet a lot of people here. So, in our guide, we'll provide you with details and ratings tailored just for families and singles, making sure you find your perfect match in the City by the Bay.
Best places to live in San Francisco for families
Bernal Heights
If you're looking for a peaceful suburban-like atmosphere with all the convenience of living in a bustling city then the charming and eclectic Bernal neighborhood may just be the perfect place for you. It's a dense neighborhood with good weather and walkability for most areas of the neighborhood. Bernal is called the neighborhood in the sky because it's built on a steep hill. That’s why many homes here have breathtaking absolutely phenomenal views of SF. For those eyeing real estate in Bernal, the median home value stands at 1 million while median rent hovers around $2000 — a testament to its desirability among people with children. And with a plethora of esteemed educational institutions nearby, including Leonard R. Flynn Elementary School and Saint Anthony Immaculate Conception Catholic School, parents can rest assured their children receive top-tier education. Nature lovers will dig the abundance of green zones around, from the sprawling Bernal Heights Park to the charming Precita Park. Oh, and let's not forget about the food scene. Los Yaquis is a really popular destination in the neighborhood just across from Precita. So, whether you're drawn to the natural beauty, the sense of community, or the unique ambiance, one thing is certain: this neighborhood is among the best places to live in SF for families. It's really all about the food and the people.
Pros of Bernal Heights
- A strong sense of community
- It's great for dog owners
- There's a ton of restaurants and bars
- It's fairly close to downtown
- Beautiful views
Cons of Bernal Heights
- Limited public transportation options
- Parking challenges
- Higher cost of living
- Little retail choice
- Noise from freeway
Noe Valley
Basking in sunshine and nestled just south of the lively Castro district, Noe exudes a certain charm reminiscent of a modern-day Pleasantville. Tucked away near the heart of the peninsula, its central location makes navigating the city a breeze—a boon for parents juggling work and cozy life. One of the things that makes it special is the fact that you can so easily get to Bernal Heights, Diamond Heights and the Mission really on foot. Venture down Noe Valley's iconic 24th Street, and you'll find yourself amidst a culinary melting pot, with restaurants offering flavors from around the globe. But there's more to Noe than meets the eye, and before making the leap to this cozy corner of San Francisco, there are a few things worth knowing. It is a neighborhood represented with classic architectural styles. Noe is not the most expensive neighborhood, but it's definitely not cheap. For those considering settling down here, the median house price for single-detached dwelling in the district is currently just over 2 million while median rent is about $2800 for one-bedroom apartment. Quaint and picturesque child-friendly community with upscale charm is how you can describe this place as you're walking through the neighborhood.
Pros of Noe Valley
- Good weather
- Cute restaurants
- Street parking is fairly easy
- Easy access to the peninsula
- Family-friendly
Cons of Noe Valley
- It’s quite expensive
- Traffic congestion on major roads
- Limited green space
- Potential for tourist crowds
- High competition for housing
Pacific Heights
Whether you're scaling the iconic Lion Street Steps for breathtaking views of the Bay, snapping photos outside the famous Mrs. Doubtfire house, or simply indulging in the culinary delights of its restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, there's never a dull moment in this lively neighborhood. From the innovative San Francisco Public Montessori, offering a unique multi-age classroom environment, to esteemed private institutions like Convent and Stuart Hall and The Hamlin School, Pacific Heights provides access to top-notch education tailored to diverse learning styles and interests. And for nature lovers, the nearby Presidio of San Francisco beckons with its network of nature trails and historic landmarks, including Crissy Field, the San Francisco Marina, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge—a place that seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. Searching for your ideal house in Pacific is like browsing through a menu at your favorite brunch spot—spoiled for choice and filled with excitement. If you're all about that vintage vibe, you'll swoon over the iconic Victorian beauties that pepper the streets of Pacific. But if modern luxury is more your jam, don’t worry! Pacific has plenty of sleek condos with all the fancy amenities you could ever want. Everything you need is right at your fingertips in Pacific. With all the essentials just a stone's throw away, life here is as easy as Sunday morning.
Pros of Pacific Heights
- Great location
- Quiet and clean
- Parking is plentiful
- Great views of the bay
- Good public transportation
Cons of Pacific Heights
- It's expensive
- Very little retail/dining around
- Challenges in finding available rental units
- Traffic congestion on major roads
- Limited green space
Presidio Heights
Tucked up in the northernmost limits of San Francisco, Presidio Heights is like that polished, classy friend who is wonderfully grounded at the same time. Imagine buildings straight out of a storybook and streets shaded by tall trees. Let us tell you why it is so good for people with children. It does, however, have genuine schools. We are talking about excellent education that children flourish in and parents adore. From preschools like Presidio Early Education School to prestigious institutions like San Francisco University High School, families have access to exceptional educational opportunities right in their backyard. But studying isn't the only thing to do. Presidio is also adept at having fun. You may easily access favorite quaint stores, upscale dining establishments, and comfortable cafes. Not to mention the green spaces and playgrounds where neighbors congregate for sun-soaked fun in the great outdoors. There are few crimes and the streets are always maintained immaculate. For those looking to buy, the median home value in Presidio stands at around $1,8 million placing it among the higher end of the spectrum in SF. Renters in Presidio can expect to pay around $3000 per month for a median-priced rental property. Sure, prices may climb a bit in Presidio, but the payoff is more than worth it. Whether you're hustling hard all week or simply seeking a slice of serenity to come home to, you'll find it in the breathtaking vistas and million-dollar mansions that grace this neighborhood.
Pros of Presidio Heights
- Parking is relatively easy
- Welcoming community
- Convenient shopping and dining
- Numerous parks
- Spacious houses
Cons of Presidio Heights
- It's relatively isolated
- Frequent noise nuisance violations
- Expensive housing
- Limited public transportation choice
- Vehicle theft and break-in on the rise
Glen Park
The area is the ultimate haven for people with kids seeking an affordable slice of tranquility right in the heart of the Bay Area. Among one of the best places to live in San Francisco, Glen shines as a prime choice for those with kids in tow. The fact is as follows: excellent schools, quiet evenings, a small-town atmosphere, and yes, those recognizable foggy mornings. Imagine this: classic Victorian mansions, quaint cottages that invite you home, and quaint alleys covered with foliage. Glen stands out in the city by the coast because of its particular brand of quiet charm. Thus, this neighborhood is ideal whether you're planning a nice nest with your friends or gathering the family. It's a commuter's dream, nestled ideally near the interstate and BART, so you can quickly get to work or take your kids on vacation. Thus, parents like you may relax knowing that downtime is on the horizon after a busy workweek. With a median property value of approximately $1,3 million and a median rent of $1900, Glen provides a variety of choices to accommodate various spending plans and lifestyles. For astute parents, Glen is a feeling rather than just a community. It's where you can relax while still feeling plugged into the pulse of the city.
Pros of Glen Park
- Very safe
- Plenty of coffee shops to choose from
- Good local schools
- Perfect for new families
- Beautiful green zones
Cons of Glen Park
- Frequent foggy weather
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Limited parking availability
- Potential for noise from freeway traffic
- Limited access to grocery stores
Best places to live in San Francisco for singles & young professionals
Lower Nob Hill
In the heart of San Francisco, nestled between Market St. and downtown, lies wonderful Lower Nob Hill – a lovely neighborhood that's always buzzing with activity. Living in this picturesque and lovely setting is interesting because it's influenced by the different characteristics of the surrounding areas. Because of the views in its central location in SF it became very popular as urbanization happened here. The tangle of historic structures that rise to the skies makes Lower Nob Hill unique among all residential areas throughout the San Francisco district; there is something interesting about every turn you take here! But it's not just the stunning architecture that catches your eye. There is an array of shopping and dining options available close by, making sure one never runs out of things to do! Grace Cathedral, the Flood Mansion, and the SF Masonic Auditorium are located in this area. There are coffee shops, boutique grocery stores such as LeBeau, and great food at every corner. So, whether you're a local looking for your next adventure or a guest looking to experience San Francisco's heartbeat, this beautiful place called Lower Nob Hill welcomes you with open arms and an unending array of joys to uncover.
Pros of Lower Nob Hill
- Central location
- Plentiful cafes, bars, and restaurants
- Good public transportation options
- Accessibility to nearby parks
- Beautiful historic architecture
Cons of Lower Nob Hill
- Relatively higher house prices
- Limited nightlife, shopping, and dining
- Noise and traffic
- Limited parking
- Little grocery options
Hayes Valley / Lower Haight
Depending on who you ask, Hayes Valley might be north and south of Hayes Street between Franklin and Webster, or it could stretch a bit further west to Fillmore and as far south as Market Street. But one thing's for sure – no matter how you slice it, Hayes Valley is one ultra-chic corridor. Bounded by Divisadero Street to the west, Market Street to the north, Duboce Avenue to the south, and Webster Street to the east, the Lower Haight pulses with creativity and energy. And at the heart of it all is Haight Street which is considered the premier location in Hayes Valley for food drink and shopping. Here you will find a variety of bars and eateries. On any given Saturday in Hayes Valley, you can go out for a morning coffee at ritual coffee or keep it healthy with a green juice from juice shop. But perhaps the crown jewel of the Lower Haight is the iconic Painted Ladies, a row of Victorian houses gracing the landscape across Alamo Square Park. And with Buena Vista Park and Duboce Park nearby, outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of green spaces to explore and enjoy. When the sun sets, the Lower Haight truly comes alive with its lively bar scene and live music venues.
Pros of Hayes Valley / Lower Haight
- Excellent park proximity
- Very walkable
- Diverse food choices
- Easily commutable and great environment
- Plenty of organic groceries
Cons of Hayes Valley / Lower Haight
- Very expensive
- Noise from traffic
- Tourists
- Parking is hard
- Little public transportation options
Potrero Hill
Nestled atop its namesake hills, Petro Hill is known for its views of the San Francisco skyline proximity to City hot spots and highways sunny weather and Caltrain Station. Even when Karl the Fog rolls in, Potrero Hill basks in its own microclimate of sunny weather, making it a beacon of brightness amidst the coastal mist. Its prime location puts everything you need within arm's reach. Whether you're craving a bite to eat, hitting the shops, or exploring the nightlife scene, you'll find it all just steps away. Plus, with a Caltrain station nearby, getting around SF – and beyond – is a breeze. And let's talk housing in Potrero Hill. We know that singles and young professionals like modern loft apartments and beautiful condos. Media sales prices for single-family homes are around $1.8 million. But if you're not quite ready to commit to buying, don't worry; Potrero Hill also has plenty of rental possibilities. The rental rate in the area starts at about $3300 a month for a one-bedroom unit. Sure, housing prices here can be a bit steep compared to other spots in SF, but trust us, it's worth it. Potrero Hill's got that unbeatable combo of convenience, community vibes, and local charm that'll make you feel right at home.
Pros of Potrero Hill
- Scenic views of the bay
- Quiet and residential
- Welcoming community
- Proximity to parks
- Good restaurants
Cons of Potrero Hill
- Hard to walk
- Limited nightlife
- Little shopping options
- Price of housing is high
- Congestion on local roads
SoMa
You’re thinking about moving to San Francisco. Well, have you ever heard about SoMa? This neighborhood basically stands for South of Market street. Some people describe it as more sterile and cleaner than a lot of other surrounding neighborhoods of downtown San Francisco because of many modern glass high-rise buildings there. There's a decent amount of young people who live in this neighborhood just because it is pretty central and it’s very easy to get to a lot of the other parts of the city. LinkedIn, Pinterest, Facebook, all those big tech companies have their offices in the SoMa area. This place is easy to ride your bike or scooter and it’s very easy to walk. At the heart of SoMa lies Yerba Buena, a green oasis amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. But it's not just about lounging around – the gardens are brimming with interactive experiences. You can marvel at the cascading waterfall at the Martin Luther King Memorial, explore the butterfly and reflection gardens, or unleash your inner child at the Children's Creativity Museum. And don't miss a spin on the vintage carousel or a glide across the ice rink during the cooler months. But whether you're soaking up the arts, savoring gourmet delights, or mingling with conference-goers, one thing's for sure – SoMa is one of the best places to live in San Francisco for young professionals.
Pros of SoMa
- Tech hub
- Easy access to highways
- Cultural attractions
- Urban revitalization
- It's very new
Cons of SoMa
- Expensive
- Pretty overwhelming traffic
- Hotbed of property crime
- Lack of green space
- Dirty streets
The Mission District
Now we are going to talk about the Mission District – one of the best areas to live in San Francisco which is steeped in history, bursting with Latino culture, and pulsating with a hipster energy that's all its own. As the oldest enclave in the city, its roots trace back to the founding of Mission Dolores in 1776, a historic site that still welcomes visitors today. But what sets the Mission apart isn't just its rich history – it's also its distinct microclimate. Here, the sun seems to shine a bit brighter and the air feels a tad warmer, even on San Francisco's famously foggy days. This area is close to main Transit lines that run through the city which makes it a really convenient place to live. So, it is relatively easy to get around without a car. For those who enjoy spending time Outdoors Dolores Park is a very popular and expansive park, offering neighborhood residents a beautiful City View at the top. People like to drink, hang out, play basketball, have a picnic here. It's relaxing, but it's also pretty lit at the same time. The Mission is a place for younger people who want to live a very quintessential San Francisco lifestyle but can’t afford living in other neighborhoods.
Pros of the Mission District
- Rich cultural heritage
- Eclectic dining scene
- Artistic vibes
- Lively nightlife
- Community spirit
Cons of the Mission District
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Parking
- Noise and urban density
- Safety concerns
- Limited affordable housing
Conclusion
San Francisco it's a naturally beautiful piece of land. The views one of the characteristics of the city that make it such a postcard city. There's lots of amazing neighborhoods which cultivate their own spirit. In San Francisco, the possibilities are endless and the adventures are endless. Whether you're vibing with the artsy scene in The Mission, soaking in the views from Potrero Hill, or diving into the hustle of SoMa, there's a spot just right for you.
Bottom Line
When you're ready to move to San Francisco, let Milvus Moving help you feel good about your decision. With our team by your side, you can rest assured that your transition to San Francisco will be smooth and hassle-free.
