Unlike New York City, San Francisco has a much more renter-friendly approach to broker fees. In most cases, landlords pay the broker, not tenants. Here's what you need to know about rental fees in the Bay Area.
Good News for SF Renters
Unlike NYC where renters often pay 15% of annual rent in broker fees, SF renters typically pay no broker fees. Landlords usually cover agent commissions as a cost of doing business.
How SF Rental Fees Work
In San Francisco's rental market:
- Landlords typically pay broker fees — Usually one month's rent to the listing agent
- Tenants pay little to no agent fees — Unless you specifically hire your own agent
- Application fees are limited — Can only cover actual screening costs
- No "finder's fees" to tenants — This is generally not the norm in SF
What You Will Pay
As a tenant in SF, your typical move-in costs are:
Typical Move-In Costs (for $3,000/month apt)
When You Might Pay a Fee
There are a few situations where you might pay agent fees:
- You hire your own tenant broker — If you specifically engage an agent to help you find apartments, you may agree to pay them
- Luxury or specialty rentals — Some high-end properties or unusual situations may involve tenant fees
- Relocation services — Corporate relocation agents may charge fees
However, for standard apartment hunting in SF, you generally should not be paying broker fees.
Application Fees
California law limits what landlords can charge for applications:
- Maximum is actual screening costs — Typically $30-50
- Must provide itemized receipt — Upon request
- Can't charge if no vacancy — Must have a unit available
Finding Apartments (No Agent Needed)
Zillow / Apartments.com / Rent.com
Major listing sites with verified properties. No fee to search or apply.
Property Management Websites
Search for management companies in your target neighborhoods. Many have their own listings.
Craigslist SF Housing
Lots of listings, but watch for scams. Good for finding deals direct from owners.
Walking Neighborhoods
Many SF landlords still post "For Rent" signs. Walk your target neighborhoods.
Total Move-In Cost Comparison
Here's how SF compares to NYC:
San Francisco
New York City
Protect Yourself
- Don't pay unexpected fees — If someone asks for a "finder's fee" or "broker fee," question it
- Get everything in writing — All fees should be clearly stated
- Never pay before seeing the apartment — Common scam
- Know the application fee limit — Should only be $30-50 for screening
- Get receipts — For any payment you make