SF apartments are smaller than the national average. If you're moving from a larger city or the suburbs, recalibrate your expectations. Here's what typical sizes look like and how to make them work.
Studio
Typical SF studio is 300-400 sq ft. Some micro-studios go as low as 200 sq ft. Most include a separate bathroom but an open living/sleeping/kitchen area.
1-Bedroom
A typical SF 1BR is around 600 sq ft. Older Victorian/Edwardian buildings may have larger rooms but less efficient layouts. New construction tends to be smaller but more modern.
2-Bedroom
Ranges widely based on building type. Victorian flats can exceed 1,000 sq ft. Modern buildings average 800-900 sq ft.
3-Bedroom
Rare in SF. Often found in older Victorian buildings or as full-floor flats. Many "3BR" units are actually converted 2BR with a small office/den.
Size by Building Type
Victorian/Edwardian (Pre-1920)
Generally larger rooms, high ceilings (9-10 ft), less efficient layouts. May have charming details but quirky floor plans. Often rent-controlled.
Typical 1BR: 650-800 sq ft
Mid-Century (1950s-1970s)
More standardized layouts. Lower ceilings (8 ft). Often have parking. Found throughout the city but especially in Sunset, Richmond, Marina.
Typical 1BR: 600-700 sq ft
Modern Construction (2000+)
Smaller but more efficient. Open floor plans, modern amenities, in-unit laundry possible. Higher ceilings in some luxury buildings. Not rent-controlled if built after 1979.
Typical 1BR: 550-650 sq ft
Size Variations by Neighborhood
Apartments vary in size by neighborhood:
- SOMA — Newer, smaller, modern high-rises. Studios average 350-400 sq ft.
- Mission/Castro — Mix of Victorians (larger) and newer buildings (smaller)
- Pacific Heights/Marina — Larger older buildings, above-average sizes
- Sunset/Richmond — Consistent mid-century buildings, average sizes
- Tenderloin/Civic Center — Older buildings, sometimes larger but varying conditions
Making Small Spaces Work
Before You Move
- Measure your furniture — That couch might not fit
- Purge before packing — Moving is a great time to declutter
- Consider SF-specific furniture — West Elm has small-space collections
- Ask about storage — Many buildings have basement storage
Space-Saving Tips
- Vertical storage — Tall bookshelves, wall-mounted everything
- Multi-function furniture — Murphy beds, storage ottomans, nesting tables
- Under-bed storage — Maximize every inch
- Folding/collapsible items — Dining tables, drying racks, desks
- Mirror placement — Creates illusion of more space
What to Ask About Size
When viewing apartments:
- "What is the exact square footage?" — Listings sometimes overestimate
- "What are the room dimensions?" — Especially important for bedrooms
- "Is there any storage included?" — Closet size, basement storage
- "Are there any built-ins?" — Older buildings may have useful built-in shelving
- "What are the ceiling heights?" — Higher ceilings feel more spacious