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 June 15, 2026, the average rent in San Francisco is $3,444, which is 10.4% 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
$2,806/Month
Units Available
10 Rentals
Lakeside is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Lakeside is $2,806 while the city average is $3,444. Residents enjoy convenient access to University of San Francisco, San Francisco Botanical Garden, and Ocean Dorado Center.
Merced Manor-Parkmerced
Average Rent
$2,869/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.2%
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 $2,869, compared to the city average of $3,444. Rent prices have increased by 3.2%. Merced Manor-Parkmerced is convenient to Metro Oakland International, Stonestown Galleria, and 19Th Ave & Junipero Serra Blvd.
Treasure Island
Average Rent
$3,470/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2%
Units Available
20 Rentals
Treasure Island is an affordable neighborhood in San Francisco with an average rent price of $3,470. Compare this to the city average of $3,444. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 2%. Treasure Island provides easy access to Academy of Art University, Aquarium of The Bay, and The Gateway.
Lower Nob
Average Rent
$3,513/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
6%
Units Available
71 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.
Nob Hill
Average Rent
$3,950/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.3%
Units Available
56 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
$4,156/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
12.4%
Units Available
226 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.
Presidio
Average Rent
$4,196/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.5%
Units Available
11 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Francisco, Presidio might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $4,196, while the city’s average stands at $3,444. In the last year, prices have increased by 4.5%. Presidio is near The City Center, Exploratorium, and Carl Street And Hillway Avenue.
Western Addition
Average Rent
$4,322/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
14.6%
Units Available
34 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.
Cow Hollow
Average Rent
$4,413/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.6%
Units Available
11 Rentals
Cow Hollow is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Cow Hollow is $4,413 while the city average is $3,444. This is a 0.6% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Hyde St & Greenwich St, Hyde And Filbert, and Metro Oakland International.
SoMa
Average Rent
$4,418/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
17.4%
Units Available
286 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.
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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.