Cost of Living in San Francisco, CA, United States

RESTAURANTS

There is some seriously good food in San Francisco and it’s only getting better and richer.

You can’t find a better street truck taco, and there are all the regular chain fast food restaurants where you can eat for only a couple of dollars.

But, if it’s finer dining you’re after, there is a ton of great high-end restaurants as well.

MARKETS

When it comes to groceries, 1,000$ a month is what you’re looking at.

If you are willing to purchase your vegetables from Chinatown, you can find some good deals over there.

Of course, the farmers market will be the place to score some great deals, and San Francisco is actually full of them during summer.

TRANSPORTATION

San Francisco has one of the most comprehensive public transportation systems in the United States, if not the most comprehensive system west of Chicago.

Transport services within San Francisco are provided by several companies, separate organizations, and tickets are not normally transferable across the systems.

Cable cars cost 7$ per ride (one way, no transfers), or 20$ per day.

UTILITIES (MONTHLY)

Utilities are pretty inexpensive in San Francisco too, though it does depend on the amount of electricity you use and on the size of your apartment – and besides, it’s probably the only thing in this city that’s very cheap.

For example, for a bit larger apartment, of about 85m2, all basic utilities like heating, cooling, electricity, and gas will cost you around 272$.

SPORTS & LEISURE

The weather in San Francisco is ideally suited for bicycle riding, and bikes are a good way to explore the beachside communities.

The city is very bike-friendly so you can go cycling and exercise this way for free!

Going to the cinema and enjoying some movie time is expensive.

Prepare to pay around 16$ per ticket.

CLOTHING & SHOES

When it comes to clothes – let’s just say that if you want it, the chances are likely you can get it in San Francisco.

There is a wide range of small and locally owned businesses throughout the city and Francisco’s most popular shopping area is Union Square, which has all the big national department stores.

Quality jeans will cost you around 65$, and you won’t find any good running sneakers without cashing out around 95$.

RENT PER MONTH

For apartments in the downtown area, the cost will easily amount to around 4,000$ a month.

But if you are willing to live at an in-law unit in the Sunset district, that will be less than 3000$ a month (around 2500$ – 2700$ for a larger one-bedroom unit).

Parking is not included so you have to get ready to spend hours to find parking on the street.

Rents are somewhat lower in the East Bay.