Cheapest Neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in San Francisco are Lakeside, Merced Manor-Parkmerced, and Treasure Island. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in San Francisco, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of September 13, 2026, the average rent in San Francisco is $3,621, which is 13.3% 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
$2,951/Month
Units Available
13 Rentals
Lakeside is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Lakeside is $2,951 while the city average is $3,621. Residents enjoy convenient access to Eucalyptus Drive, San Francisco International, and 19Th Ave & Winston Dr.
Merced Manor-Parkmerced
Average Rent
$2,951/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
14.5%
Units Available
13 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Francisco neighborhood on a budget, check out Merced Manor-Parkmerced. The average rent is $2,951, compared to the city average of $3,621. Rent prices have increased by 14.5%. Merced Manor-Parkmerced is convenient to Eucalyptus Drive, San Francisco Botanical Garden, and Lakeshore Plaza.
Treasure Island
Average Rent
$3,752/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
6.5%
Units Available
23 Rentals
Treasure Island is an affordable neighborhood in San Francisco with an average rent price of $3,752. Compare this to the city average of $3,621. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 6.5%. Treasure Island provides easy access to San Francisco International, Alcatraz Island, and Children's Creativity Museum.
Lower Nob
Average Rent
$4,116/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
9.4%
Units Available
104 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.
Union Square
Average Rent
$4,227/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.5%
Units Available
19 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Francisco, Union Square might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $4,227, while the city’s average stands at $3,621. In the last year, prices have increased by 3.5%. Union Square is near Children's Creativity Museum, 631 Grant Ave, and San Francisco Centre.
Nob Hill
Average Rent
$4,287/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
6.9%
Units Available
90 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.
Civic Center
Average Rent
$4,305/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
14.6%
Units Available
241 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.
Hayes Valley
Average Rent
$4,312/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
7.3%
Units Available
12 Rentals
Hayes Valley is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Hayes Valley is $4,312 while the city average is $3,621. This is a 7.3% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to UC San Francisco, Mount Zion, Duboce Ave & Church St, and Academy of Art University.
SoMa
Average Rent
$4,464/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
19.4%
Units Available
315 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.
Cathedral Hill/Intermission
Average Rent
$4,521/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
7.2%
Units Available
125 Rentals
Cathedral Hill/Intermission is a budget-friendly neighborhood that's rich in culture. The area is home to several churches and cathedrals, adding a unique charm to the neighborhood. However, despite its cultural richness, the neighborhood remains affordable for renters.
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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.