Best Affordable Neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in San Francisco are Lakeside, Merced Manor-Parkmerced, and Stonestown. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in San Francisco, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of May 1, 2026, the average rent in San Francisco is $3,340, which is 7.9% higher than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.
Lakeside
Average Rent
$2,789/Month
Units Available
11 Rentals
Lakeside is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Lakeside is $2,789 while the city average is $3,340. Residents enjoy convenient access to Ocean Dorado Center, Golden Gate Park, and Eucalyptus Drive.
Merced Manor-Parkmerced
Average Rent
$2,789/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.1%
Units Available
11 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Francisco neighborhood on a budget, check out Merced Manor-Parkmerced. The average rent is $2,789, compared to the city average of $3,340. Rent prices have decreased by 1.1%. Merced Manor-Parkmerced is convenient to 19Th Ave & Holloway Ave, San Francisco State Univ. Observatory, and Stonestown Galleria.
Stonestown
Average Rent
$3,078/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.7%
Units Available
19 Rentals
Stonestown is an affordable neighborhood in San Francisco with an average rent price of $3,078. Compare this to the city average of $3,340. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 3.7%. Stonestown provides easy access to City College of San Francisco, San Francisco Zoo, and San Francisco Botanical Garden.
Lower Nob
Average Rent
$3,318/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.7%
Units Available
81 Rentals
Lower Nob is an affordable district that provides proximity to downtown without the high costs. Residents enjoy the area's various dining and entertainment options, including historic theatres and local eateries. They also love Lower Nob's walkability and access to cable cars, making navigating the city a total breeze.
Richmond District
Average Rent
$3,490/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2%
Units Available
14 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Francisco, Richmond District might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $3,490, while the city’s average stands at $3,340. In the last year, prices have increased by 2%. Richmond District is near Golden Gate Park, Judah St & 23Rd Ave, and Japanese Tea Garden.
Nob Hill
Average Rent
$3,492/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.2%
Units Available
61 Rentals
Nob Hill exudes historic charm with its iconic cable cars and stunning architecture while offering reasonably priced rentals. Its elevated location provides breathtaking views of the cityscape and Bay, with local parks and upscale establishments adding to its allure.
Treasure Island
Average Rent
$3,538/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.7%
Units Available
27 Rentals
Treasure Island is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Treasure Island is $3,538 while the city average is $3,340. This is a 2.7% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Aquarium of The Bay, California College of the Arts, and Broadway And The Embarcadero Inbound.
Civic Center
Average Rent
$3,825/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
8.3%
Units Available
205 Rentals
Civic Center is an affordable neighborhood in the heart of San Francisco's cultural scene. This area is known as an entertainment hub, as it's home to world-renowned restaurants, several theaters, and museums. Here, residents can experience enriching entertainment and culinary options without breaking their budgets.
SoMa
Average Rent
$4,052/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
11.1%
Units Available
259 Rentals
Known for its art scene, SoMa offers a unique renting experience with low living costs. The area is home to several museums and art galleries, providing cultural enrichment right at your doorstep. With its mix of residential and commercial properties, SoMa offers a balanced lifestyle for its residents.
Western Addition
Average Rent
$4,055/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
11.4%
Units Available
32 Rentals
Western Addition combines affordability with a rich history highlighted by its classic Victorian homes. The neighborhood’s diverse culinary scene includes both traditional and contemporary dining options, and its proximity to public transit ensures easy access to the rest of San Francisco.
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Methodology
Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.
We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.