So you’ve got some extra cash and you want to live in one of the hottest neighborhoods in one of the hottest cities in America. San Francisco rents have skyrocketed 14.5% in the last year, and these neighborhoods are at the top of the list. Here are the places to be for the high rollers.
5. SoMa: 1BR = $3,700
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South of Market is more than just the home of the Giants. It’s also home to a diverse community of techies, intellectuals and artsy types. The transitioning neighborhood is characterized by warehouse-to-loft conversions and features a perfect blend of old industrial charm and modern style. If you want to experience the nightlife, head to Folsom Street between Seventh and 12 to find an exotic mix of bars, clubs, wine tasting and more. During the day, get your culture on at Yerba Buena Gardens (pictured), where there are museums, a convention center and shopping. And it’s an easy commute to Silicon Valley thanks to Caltrain.
4. Nob Hill: 1BR = $3,725
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This ritzy area is marked by Victorian homes and great views. If you’re looking for a quiet, safe place to raise your family, this is where you want to be. Your neighbors are trendy middle and upper-middle class young professionals, and you have an easy commute to Union Square, Chinatown, the Westfield and Embarcadero. At night Polk Street is your spot for bars, restaurants and lounges. Side note: the altitude is high so it may be a workout for some.
3. Civic Center: 1BR = $3,783
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This is the city’s cultural epicenter, with an opera house, museum, library, ballet and two plazas. It’s also the home of City Hall (pictured). You’ll catch everything here, from concerts to protests. Enjoy food trucks, skating, biking and farmers markets. It’s a noisier part of the city and it can be sketchy at night, but you can’t beat the energy.
2. Fidi: 1BR =$3,800
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If you like to be in the middle of all the action, this is your place. The Financial District is the business center of San Francisco, where you can find skyscrapers, the stock market and street performers. Montgomery Street is its main thoroughfare, and if you need to grab a quick bite, there are plenty of restaurants, cafés and food trucks. Plus, there are shops and kiosks for quick service because everybody here is on a tight schedule. The neighborhood hangout is the Embarcadero Ferry Building (pictured). You can also check out Sue Bierman Park and the Transamerica Pyramid.
1. Pacific Heights: 1BR = $3,848
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Finally, this is the elegant old-money neighborhood where prominent buildings and gorgeous mansions house wealthy neighbors. Danielle Steele lives here in Spreckels Mansion (pictured), and Sherlock Holmes author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is rumored to have lived at 2151 Sacramento (but it turns out he may have just visited once). This suburban neighborhood is home to the wealthy and stylish who enjoy views of the city and the bay. Alta Plaza Park and LaFayette Park are great daytime spots for Fido and the family, and you’re also right next to Presidio National Park.
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