Moving to San Francisco is exciting—and expensive. The Bay Area is unlike anywhere else: tech culture, microclimates, stunning beauty, and a cost of living that takes some getting used to. This guide covers everything you need to know to make your move successful.
Before You Move: Planning
1. Set Your Budget
SF is one of the most expensive cities in the US. Know your numbers:
- The 2.5-3x rule: Most landlords require income of 2.5-3x monthly rent. For a $3,000/month apartment, you need $90,000-108,000 annual income.
- Upfront costs: First month + security deposit (up to 2 months) = $6,000-9,000+ for a 1BR
- Monthly budget: Plan for rent to be 30-40% of your income (though many spend more)
2. Choose Your Neighborhood
The Mission
Sunny, trendy, great food. Studios from $2,800. Two BART stations. Gentrifying quickly.
SOMA
Modern high-rises near tech offices. Studios from $2,600. Near Caltrain for Peninsula commutes.
Marina / Cow Hollow
Young professionals, flat streets, near the water. Studios from $2,800. Limited transit.
Inner Sunset / Inner Richmond
Foggy but charming, near Golden Gate Park. Studios from $2,200. Great value.
See our complete neighborhood guide by budget →
3. Gather Documents Early
SF's rental market moves fast. Have these ready before you start looking:
- Government ID (passport works if no CA license yet)
- 2-3 recent pay stubs or offer letter
- Bank statements (2-3 months)
- Employment verification letter
- Previous landlord reference
- Guarantor documents (if needed)
Finding an Apartment
Option 1: Visit in Person (Recommended)
The best approach is a "boots on the ground" trip:
- Plan a 4-7 day trip dedicated to apartment hunting
- Schedule 5-8 viewings per day
- Be prepared to apply immediately when you find something good
- Have all documents and payment ready
Option 2: Remote Search
If you can't visit first:
- Use video tours (FaceTime/Zoom with landlord)
- Ask for comprehensive photos and videos
- Research the building thoroughly (use StreetSmart)
- Consider a short-term rental first, then find a long-term place once you're here
Scam Warning
Remote apartment hunting has high scam risk. Never send money without seeing an apartment or verifying the landlord. Learn how to avoid scams →
True Cost of Moving to SF
Move-In Cost Calculator (for $3,000/month apt)
Relocation Timeline
Months Before
Set budget, research neighborhoods, gather documents, start saving for upfront costs
Weeks Before
Plan apartment hunting trip or arrange short-term housing
Weeks Before
Arrive, view apartments, apply immediately for ones you like, sign lease
Move-In Week
Set up utilities (PG&E), get internet, explore your neighborhood
After You Move
First Week Checklist
- Set up utilities (PG&E for gas/electric)
- Get internet installed
- Get a Clipper card for transit
- Explore your neighborhood on foot
- Take photos of your apartment's condition
First Month
- Get a California ID/driver's license
- Register your car (if applicable) — CA has strict emissions requirements
- Register to vote
- Find a doctor and dentist
- Get renters insurance
Tips from SF Locals
- Microclimates are real — The Mission is sunny when the Sunset is foggy. Pack layers always.
- Learn BART and Muni — A car is often more hassle than it's worth
- Bring a fog coat — Karl the Fog is part of the experience
- SF apartments are small — Don't bring too much furniture
- Get involved — SF has incredible communities for every interest
- Understand rent control — It could save you thousands over time