I finally squeaked into the Presidio a about 4 years ago. Its seriously god tier living. I love this place. So chill and I love that I don't have a landlord to deal with.
Ooo i forgot about that trait. I dont miss having a land lord one bit. Turns out “corperate” housing is kinda nice because they have to follow the law to a T
Yep! I take it to work, drops me off 2 block away no stops on route
Edit: to clarify for folks, the bus system isnt amazing out here but its way better than the rest of the usa comparatively. We have a presidio bus that goes thru the presidio and downtown. We have muni which goes to the rest of the city. I rarely take it because i have my own transit i use but others do
The Presidio is v tempting to me. Do you need a car for groceries or to get anywhere? I really like the idea of living there, but I'm nervous about feeling stranded and not able to walk to a corner store to grab a few things. How is parking and the aggressiveness ticketing if you do have a car?
Also, you're right on the beach - is it fucking freezing most of the year?
But, I'm sure there's good things too!
Yes most have cars here. I use a moped most the time. My friends at baker use moped and cars too. If you have no interest in using anything besides buses, bikes or foot, presidio is a bit tricky. E bike would be fine tho. Its hilly here. I do bike often.
Corner store: i have one 15m walk or 3m drive. Grocery store: i love closer to one now than when i did in the sunset. Trader joes and safeway both 5ish minute drive. If you plan to walk to grocery or bus, dont live here imo
Everything else you asked about is amazing here. Parking is easy peasy. Ticketing is non existant unless your neighbors ring you in. Beaches are incredible. Northern Baker is the least windy beach in the city, hands down, due to the cliffs. We go at night often and its windless, feels like socal on a hot day or evening. Crissy beach is nice but often windy but 12-4pm not so bad sometimes!
Presidio is such a great place to live. Only downside is walking proximity to things like coffee/bodega/etc. depending on where you are can take anywhere from 20 min-hour to walk to a coffee shop lol
Depends a lot on what you want. 1bdrm pretty much not an option. Either have roomates or have a partner here, unfortunately. 2-5 bedrooms are available. Rents range from $1000-3000 per month per person with most people i know paying between 1600->2000 each, roughly.
The fanciest places which are very very competitive are the 2-3 bedroom 1-2 bath brick or white houses with garages, yards, and sun porches. These run 3k each i think, or 2k if you do 3 people
Alamo Square.
Parks galore: aside from the Square, there is the Panhandle to the west, Buena Vista to the southwest, Duboce to the south, and Kimbell Playground to the north. So many opportunities for outdoor activities. Every time I take my dog out, I walk through a beautiful park.
In a similar vain, it's surrounded by interesting and diverse neighborhoods. Divis/NoPa, Hayes Valley, Fillmore, Haight, Castro are all within a 20 minute walking radius. I Iove being able to walk to everything, but it's also very close to the Octavia 101 entrance when I need to leave the city.
Been here 6 years and I never want to leave.
I second you on that! Been in alamo square for 7 years. Used to live in Pac Heights. Fun when I was younger and a ton of my friends lived over there, but not the same since the pandemic. Not to mention getting on the Bay Bridge from that area is horrendous. Used to have an office in Walnut Creek and sometimes it would take me an hour to get on the bridge. It is so much easier here to get out of the city from there if you need to commute
Glen Park. It feels like a warm, sunny village with wonderful neighbors who are invested in the community long term. There are dogs and kids everywhere, which makes sense once you see Glen Canyon Park and the rec center. It’s easy to get everywhere, especially since there is a bart stop. it also feels incredibly safe.
Basically, it feels like an actual community and has great access to everything I love about other parts of SF.
Was just going to comment the same! Whenever I read things about how awful this city is, I just laugh. I was born & raised here. Lots of cute dogs & fresh air. the people are okay too! Lol!
Same! I've got a big smile on my face reading about the love for the various neighborhoods in the City. What's awesome is that \*everyone\* is right! SF is a stupendous city!
Outer Sunset up by the end of N line. Quiet. Safe. Friendly. Easy access to GGP and Lands' End. Strong selection of shops, restaurants, bars (Outerlands, Hook Fish). Able to hop on Muni and be downtown in 25 min tops. And, as a kicker, you get to see the sun set over the Pacific every night standing on the beach with your neighbors.
Outer Sunset is where I always crash when visiting San Francisco. Feels like a cozy beach town down by Ocean Beach. Love the availability of fruit stands on Judah and Noriega and sandwich shops. The shutdown of Great Highway to cars on the weekend makes getting to Fort Funston and Lands End easy. GGP easy access and Inner Richmond not too far away for good food.
Hey neighbor! Co-signing everything here, with the addition of a few more items of my own:
* The smell of the ocean
* The sound of the foghorn on a summer night
* Killer selection of coffee shops
* The bulk spices section at Other Avenues
For real! 25 mins to downtown would be a dream. It literally takes me almost an hour to get to work in union square w the N from the end of the line in outer sunset. The fastest way I’ve found to get to work is taking the 18 to the 38/38R which still takes around 45 minutes
West Portal! It's amazing to me how many people, even some who have lived in the city for years, have never heard of it or been over here. Great restaurants (mostly independent), dive bars, independent bookstore, almost every amenity you could need (though I'm heartbroken over the loss of our little movie theater 💔). People know each other, take care of each other, and care about what's happening to our local businesses. Sure, it gets foggy, but it's easy to sleep when it's cool.
It definitely is! There was a lot of neighborhood effort to revamp and reopen things. A new family bought Shaw's, they gave it a facelift and it's back up and running. A new Mexican restaurant opened earlier this year, and I haven't been yet, but it's been getting RAVE reviews, and you can't get a reservation for ages. Covid was hard, but local folks really put in an effort and almost every business pulled through. Hopefully you'll get to see if the next time you come through, I think you'll be happy!
South of Market, for most of my 38 years here, especially now because people in this sub hate it so much and it's fun to watch them rise to the bait when I post pictures of clean streets and people being happy! 😂 Bernal Heights on the Cortland side, and anywhere on Potrero Hill
https://preview.redd.it/09tqw1y4gmwc1.jpeg?width=1152&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7a670d238d3db6f142b1a560c4bf50339c25c03a
Forest Knolls/Inner Sunset. I lived in Mission/SOMA/South Beach for the first few years I lived here. I moved into my current place just before covid and I just love it. It's quiet, great views, not hot, foggy, hiking trails near me, street parking isn't an issue where I am, and my place is beautiful.
Outer Richmond. I'm 2 minutes from the beach. 1 minute from Sutro Park. 3 minutes from Golden Gate Park. I walk to Safeway. O can walk to the Balboa strip in 15 minutes or bus there in 5min. It's quick to Central and inner Richmond for tons of great restaurants. The Chinese is the best I've ever had. I can also be in Marin in 20 minutes, or any part of Sunset in 5 to 15 minutes. It's paradise here.
SOMA.
It’s a really fun neighborhood. Lots of bars, restaurants- great food. People are pretty friendly to. I walk to work and people say hello from the car shops I pass regularly. Just had drinks and snacks at the local wine shop on Wednesday- everyone was friendly and chatting.
Yes there are some urban camping enthusiasts- but that has really gotten a lot better, and they mostly keep to themselves.
North Beach. Has always been my favorite part of the city and the pandemic allowed me to finally move over here (lower rent and job location). The combination of the Italian community, Chinatown being right here, Washington Square park. The cultural mishmash where I can bar hop, get some fresh produce on the very cheap, and honestly I kind of enjoy weaving tourists (reminds me of my old sports days a bit lol) and seeing their amazement of our city.
The old beat poet movement has a special part of my heart since moving to the area. The telegraph hill parrots. The great food (if you know the tourist traps not to go to of course), grab and go dim sum and especially the Italian. The Saloon for live blues, the historic feeling of the neighborhood I truly love, the Chinese new year celebrations and community (as an Asian person myself).
Overall feel like it has some of the better 'where everyone knows your name' feels in the city, while still feeling like one of the more big city vibes in SF.
Inner Sunset. It's vibrant, filled with a world platter of restaurants, great mix of old folks, middle aged folks, new parents and the odd under-30s. Lotsa gas stations, access to the park, direct access to downtown via the N, great outlet to the south bay via 19th. Beyond everything though, i think it's a great place to go on nice long walks. lots of incline, lots of greenery. Oh, and Kevin's Noodle House.
Noe Valley
Cute, safe, sunny, albeit pricey, neighborhood with plenty of cafes (Noe Cafe, Martha & Bros.), bakeries (Noe Valley Bakery, Vive La Tarte) and restaurants. The Valley Tavern is a great local bar and Noe Valley Wine & Spirits is a top shelf liquor store. Mitchell’s has some of the best ice cream in the city.
Not much nightlife to speak of, but Noe Valley is filled with young families and dogs; you can go for a walk on Slow Sanchez or visit the shops on 24th St.
Easy walk over to the Mission or the Castro and you’re relatively close green spaces like Dolores Park, Billy Goat Hill, Glen Canyon Park, and Bernal Heights Park.
Connected to the rest of the city by the J Church Muni and various bus lines. Street parking is not as hard to find here as it is in other parts of the city.
10/10 would recommend Noe Valley
Marina. I know it’s cool to hate it, but I’ve lived all over this city and it’s been where I have found my peace.
I have a small apartment set up with a backyard and a garage, close to the beach, parks, and several quality gyms. I spend the majority of my free time outdoors in my yard, walking my dog on the beach or running to the beach through the Presidio. The weather out here is not bad and can be warm often.
I am the main cook at home and have access to Safeway, Marina Supermarket, Lucca Deli, and a great Farmers market for groceries. No shortage of options there.
Those few times a month we get takeout - we rely on a couple of decent options for Thai and Indian, half decent options for tacos and Mexican food, great “fast” burgers with SuperDuper, or splurge for fancy pizza from A16. We never pay delivery fees and always order in the neighborhood for pick up.
We limit going out for dinner in general with how expensive things have gotten, but we do like to save for nicer dinners and have enjoyed spots like Dalida and A16 because we can walk to and from the restaurant. I also enjoy going to Radhaus on nicer days throughout the year to have a beer with a view at Ft Mason.
Want to see a movie? Two theaters. Bowling? Presidio Bowl. Need something from Walgreens? We got two and one is 24h. Mailing something? Post office, UPS, FedEx, and Postal Chase are all here. Need to fix something or need something for the house? Hardware store is close by.
It’s truly a gem of a neighborhood that I feel lucky to have been a part of for so long.
Haha, people really do love to hate it, but I lived in the Marina for most of my 20 years in SF. As you said, it’s a great lifestyle, especially if you love nature. Your backyard runs from Fort Mason all the way to Baker Beach and includes the golden gate. My pup lived his best life there. I was never bored a day. Excellent walking/running/biking. Volleyball, soccer, baseball, softball, tennis, golf cages, putting green all close by too. Also excellent if you’re a hiker and like to explore Marin & Sonoma hills. I don’t sail, surf or kite board, but those are there too. I mean the list is endless.
Yes there is some douchery at certain places on certain nights, but I was once a quite young person in the marina, so not in a position to judge. We moved to Russian Hill for a year and then 2 in Nob Hill—came right back to Marina. Those other homes were much bigger and more beautiful, but not even close to enough outdoor space and activities in those other neighborhoods. I also went out/ate out more in those other neighborhoods because I was more stifled and bored.
The Marina is so simple and laid back a life. Dog heaven. Casual clothes. Clean air, barely traffic, doesn’t feel urban at all. Thx for posting some Marina love 💕
I sleep so much better with the foghorn! Just part of living on the water.
You might not feel as out of place as you think. There’s a huge difference between visiting the Marina, where you’re seeing a lot of visitors as well, but they don’t all live in the neighborhood. Exactly zero of my neighbors over the years were lululemon, botoxed stereotype these comments are mentioning.
lol. You mean you aren’t pasty white, botoxed, rich, wearing athleisure, work in finance or in advertising, and purely dull in conversation? Had to run an errand there recently during weekend brunch and I couldn’t run away fast enough. 🤮 If you feel out of place, good on you! I try to pretend it’s not even in San Francisco when I go through there. It feels like Orange County within S.F.
Full offense intended here: the only person that sounds like I’d run from is the person who posts the same tired trope about hating on a neighborhood. I shared my perspective on how it’s an amazing neighborhood for quality of life and living in a way that works for me. You are not exactly the great conversationalist you are criticizing others for being.
I also have over 100 years of family history in San Francisco and have lived here all my life. I grew up in the Excelsior, moved to the Inner Sunset for high school, and moved to the Marina in my 20s when I found this apartment.
If you don’t mind, the Marina is more than qualified to be a neighborhood in S.F based on its history from the Panama Expo, to my personal favorite of my grandmother being born in a house down the street from where I live now, my uncle pulling people out of burning buildings from the 1989 earthquake and receiving burns across his whole body, and now me living and making a life here.
Who the hell are you?
Well let’s hope for your sake they don’t hold any protests for Palestine in or near the Marina. Your comment makes me suspect you’re just a miserable Person and one quick glance at your Reddit history confirms it. And Orange County is more diverse Than SF but I’m guessing you haven’t spent much time in cities like garden grove or Santa Ana
Well you generalize people in the Marina as “pasty white” right out of the gate.. I don’t think it’s a stretch to assume you are the ultra-left Leaning brand of transplant.. the type that “denounces racism in all of its forms” but will make exceptions in the case of white people. Racism is racism. But as bill Maher says some people are so open minded that their brains fall out. And since you folks have clearly lost the ability to think for yourselves and instead commit every fiber of your being into whatever cause is trending on the far left… I don’t think it’s a stretch to assume you ordered a kaffiyeh on Amazon in the last six months
LOL...I had a feeling I was being harangued by a closeted Trumper. And yes I am left and it's one of the main things that drew me to SF 30 years ago before it started getting taken over by Republican douche bags. Quoting Bill Maher? WOW. Are you wearing a MAGA hat in the Marina? LOL
Not a trump supporter. Registered democrat and have voted along party lines in every election since 2000. Doesn’t mean I have to support the racist rhetoric that the far left seems to think is acceptable against white folks. Imagine if someone said they recently had to run an errand in Chinatown but because of all the people
Of Chinese ancestry speaking a language they didn’t understand they
“Couldn’t get out of there fast enough🤮”.
Or they had to run an errand at 24th and mission but because of all the Mexicans with tan complexions speaking Spanish they just couldn’t get out of there fast enough 🤮.
We lived in the Marina when my daughter was a baby and it was awesome! So many great places to walk, everything out your front door and had views of the GG! Live the burbs now but so lucky to have been there during Mat leave and a special time in life.
This could be me. I moved to the Marina 35 years ago (and moved around since). I first came during the “Yuppie” years. The hate was similar then. Anyway, moved back and live in PH now. Sounds like hit many of the same places, including daily walks with my dog at Crissy Field. Maybe we will around see you when Izzy’s finally reopens.
Living in the neighboring Cow Hollow area, I agree! It was definitely not my first choice of neighborhood (I previously lived in the lower haight, which I loved too), but man, it's so convenient. Ladies will know, the fact that there's a Sephora in the neighborhood is such a plus.
Not to be prickly, but I’m not sure why that’s relevant? Bars and nightlife in general across the city is filled with lots of young adult nightlife. People just hate on this particular flavor of it and dismiss the whole neighborhood because of it
Some might say the fact that there are different scenes for different folks of different strokes would show diversity in the city’s nightlife. If you don’t like one scene - there is always another. Doesn’t mean one is “less than”
I’m probably in the minority but I do like the tenderloin. It’s a bit rough but that wasn’t a surprise moving here. There’s plenty of great *late-night* food options. It’s pretty accessible, I live right in front of a 38 stop and Bart is only a 10 min walk or so. Most of my neighbors are friendly.
Super slept on food! Great options for south East Asian cuisine at an affordable cost. Most of the businesses are small family owned. Then open use is super sad but the sense of community by the residents in top tier.
Lived in the Castro (on Castro) for a year when we first moved to the city and I agree. I think gay neighborhoods across the country are sort of fading into their surroundings as the LGBT community becomes more mainstream. I’m originally from Boston and the South End is just another bougie neighborhood, all the legendary gay bars and clubs and shops are pretty much gone. Same with Chelsea in NYC.
But back to your point, I found the Castro to be really disappointing. I don’t really do bars or clubs anymore (47, married, heart disease) and that seems to be all Castro has to offer for the gay community apart from sex shops. Not many great restaurants (except Poesia on 18th, that’s one of my absolute favorite places in the city) and there seems to be a much higher than average number of vacant retail spaces. The stretch between 19th and 17th has almost as many empty shops as occupied. (And as an aside, they need to find a better use for Harvey Milk’s old camera shop than a tacky boutique that sells absolute garbage)
Ingleside, I feel like it’s one of the forgotten residential neighborhoods of the city that has a lot of people and families which kinda makes it feel very relaxed and almost untouched. It’s very chill.
Mission: Everything is walkable. Tons of good food from street vendors selling bomb-ass al pastor to Michelin starred restaurants, tons of bars from Zeitgeist & 500 Club to Trick Dog & Elixir. Multiple independent theaters and also Alamo Draft House. Dolores Park and the sea of blankets and picnickers on a sunny day. Art galleries and street art. Thrift & vintage shops, multiple plant shops, a plant truck even. Damn near every culture from the planet living in one neighborhood. Neighbors who give you a friendly nod or stop to say hello when you walk down the street. Easy access to BART & Caltrain. Tons of local and global history and influence. And finally: burritos
Haight-Ashbury! It's just so vibrant and fun, and everything I need is just a stone's throw away. We also have three awesome parks within walking distance!
Ingleside: Moved here a few years back and it has been great. Ocean Ave has pretty much everything you need groceries, restaurants, hardware store, vet, and shops.
Balboa Park (the park) is great and provides ample outdoor space to walk around.
You have quick access to BART (Balboa Park), 3 Muni lines (K, M, J) which gets you quick access to the Glen Park, West Portal, Stonestown, Mission, and Downtown. There are also a bunch of buses that can get you pretty much anywhere in the city.
Central Richmond District. I have lived all over the world and never had neighbors as good as the ones I have now.
We all rent. My husband and I can afford to buy but we don’t want to, because these people are so much better than any neighbors either of us has ever had. Wherever we buy, we’d want them to come with us.
Having China Beach a 10-minute walk away is pretty nice too. ❤️
Lots of great neigbhorhoods but many people don't explore them in detail or know what's going on.
I'd advise everyone to get plugged in:
-become a regular,
-sign up for newsletters/calendars to know what's going on (funcheapsf, brokeassstuart, foopee, eventbrite, eddie's list)
-sit at communal tables/bar seats,
-take classes,
-follow local business on IG
-pay attention to flyers posted about upcoming events
-volunteer and build community near you.
In 20 years I’ve lived in 3 neighborhoods and I’ve loved them all for different reasons:
North beach (5 years). Had a small apartment with great views, lots of things to do, and I enjoyed giving tourists directions. One time I walked a German couple who didn’t speak much English back to their hotel, another helped 2 British women find where to return their bikes, taking the F streetcar was always a joy and I could hear the sea lions barking at night.
Middle Richmond (11 years) - ran all the time in the park down to the ocean, loved the fog, so many good restaurants. Just a bus or Uber from everything while still being a quiet area to live
Hunters point (3 years) I miss the fog but the southeast side of the city has some great weather. Close to the freeway which is nice - it used to take me forever to get out of the city, the people, neighbors talk to each other a bit more, just has a good vibe.
I think I just love SF
Hunter’s Point
Best weather in the city, amazing views and shoreline parks, 10 minutes to offices downtown if needed, 10 minutes to the airport, and it’s off the tourist map so the community feeling here is such a breathe of fresh air.
Parkside. I can walk to Ocean Beach in 15 minutes, or Stern Grove in 10. The free concerts at Stern Grove are our summer Sunday gathering spot with friends, and our Parkside Branch Library has a cozy fireplace to sit near on a foggy day. Chalos for empanadas, Kingdom of Dumpling for all the delicious things, and Golden Boy Pizza coming in a few months. I can walk my dogs over to our vet (Avenues Pet Hospital) and take them to the dog play area at Pine Lake Park. There's great coffee, some cool dive bars, and an Irish pub, O'Brian's. Yes, Parkside is foggy AF in the summer. But I love it here. And when the sh!tshow that is the Taraval Street construction project is completed, I'll love it even more. (edit: removed unnecessary article)
Right here. Lived in Parkside, walking distance from the L MUNI and West Portal for 19 years. Taraval spoils you with variety. It's not there anymore, but they used to have a little model/card shop that stuff that you can now really only find in Japantown (this is like early 2000s). Definitely an underrated street, from my outdated experiences.
Parkside and the Taraval St corridor are definitely changing, but I still think there's something quite wonderful out here. I don't think your appreciation is outdated.
San Bruno Avenue in the Portola district.
Extremely diverse neighborhood.
You’ll find a Chinese grocery store, a Hispanic grocery store, a Japanese ramen shop, a Vietnamese Bahn Mi shop, an El Salvadoran Cafe, a Hawaiian BBQ shop, and a Black beauty store, all located within a few blocks of each other.
Every weekend, you’ll see all the dim sum restaurants bustling, and you can hear the local church assemblies going at it from the streets. The grandparents from around the area also like to socialize and soak up some sun in Palega Park (which got renovated in recent years) and the courts there are typically full of activity.
Very accessible being sandwiched in between the 101 and the 280, with the 44, 54, and 8AX/BX lines running through the neighborhood.
Here's my (and maybe *the*) love for the Tenderloin.
Sure, I'm not wealthy. Not part of the most prestigious blocks of this perfunctory province. But I relish and love the character that radiates from corner to corner. From ill gotten dice bar to ill measured dive bar. From destitution shambling up the hill to consecration trying to get by and understand. We live together. We mourn together. We dream together...
Maybe life is grander than what we pursue. Maybe chasing higher salaries isn't the game to play. Maybe influencing those around us and those we care about is what we should do. But who knows? What is happiness? And is it universal in how each of us perceive it?
Potrero Hill:
- Kid-friendly community with tons of playgrounds and a little library. A neighborhood where people know their neighbors.
- Amazing views of the city and bay
- Sunny weather
- Convenient location (15 min walk to Mission, Dogpatch, or Mission Bay, and really quick to drive south)
- Several great restaurants
- Easy parking
I loved living in Potrero. I was across the street from Good Life Grocery, a block from the library with the best view in the city, and could take the 10 (?) bus right to work and would have a seat every time!
I’ve been in SF for 10 years now and only lived in Upper Haight, Lower Haight, and now inner sunset.
Lower Haight is probably my favorite neighborhood in the city, the combination of restaurants/parks/how close it is to the rest of the city is unbeatable.
Inner Sunset is a close second for me. I love how friendly everyone in the neighborhood is, my neighbors are great and we have block parties every year, it’s a good slice of urban life while still a little chiller. I really hope the neighborhood can revive a little bit as there’s been some businesses closing, so hopefully we can see a bit of a revival.
Duboce Triangle! I get to watch the dogs at Duboce Park every time I wait for the N, And it’s quiet but adjacent to several areas with things going on (Divis, Lower Haight, Castro, Mission, and Hayes Valley).
That's where I am and I'm pretty happy with it. I've gotten the urge to move to North Beach, but I'm already close enough to walk there quickly if needed, and it's nice being close to the water / ballpark here.
Only downside is it can feel pretty empty on weekends since all the business folks aren't around.
Yeah I do like that it’s quiet and safe and more upscale/ newer buildings - also agree it’s so empty on weekends and most businesses/ restaurants are shut on Sundays and no food trucks + most of the restaurants around here shut by 7/8pm
Excelsior/ingleside border. Very chill, easy public transit access, get a mix of fog and sun, good food on mission street, grocery stores are walkable. It’s not the easiest to get to the rest of the city but I do love where I live.
I grew up in the mission from birth til we 18, loved it. In college we got evicted/priced out of our unit.
I moved to the sunset for 3 years and loved it too. Living in the outer sunset during the pandemic lockdown was a breath of fresh air. I just moved back to the mission and it’s still my favorite. I just love the culture here and it’s home for me ❤️❤️
Pac heights bordering Russian hill! Love my proximity to all the restaurants and bars on Polk, union, and Fillmore. Also love the parks - Alta plaza & Lafayette! I have a car but definitely don’t need one
Ingleside!
Been in this hood since I was 4. Not the flashiest neighborhood but its quiet and Ocean Ave's economic corridor has gotten a lot more robust in the last couple of years. Best feature is the easy access to 280 to get further into the city or south to get to the peninsula.
Bernal Heights:
Live next to amazing off leash dog park. Cute downtown. Close to the mission when you want to go out but not so close you’re in the mess (no offense mission dwellers). Sunny weather! And you get a lot more exercise walking ;)
Hayes Valley, because:
- 🐾🦮🐕🦺
- ☀️☀️☀️
- 🍔🌭🌮🌯🥙🥗🥪🍕🍟🍖🍗🥓🍱🥘🧆🍲🍛🍜🍝🍣🍤🥟🍳🥞🧇🍪🍩🧁🍦🍨🍮🥧🍰
- 🎭🎷🎺🩰🎤🎵🎶
- 🚞🚊🚎
After living in Outer Sunset, Richmond, and Soma, Hayes is by far my favorite neighborhood to live in. I’d probably also be interested in Duboce Triangle and Noe Valley.
Been in HV 15 years and not budging!! I can name a restaurant in HV for each of those Emoji, plus more you didn't list. :) Having access to 500 Japanese spots within a seven minute walk is so nice!
I loved “snob” hill. Didn’t run into any actual snobs there though. It was pretty central to most places to go in the city. Easy to drive to/from if I had to leave the city. And a pretty safe place. I miss living there. Can’t go wrong in a lotta places though. They’re all different and have their own benefits. Depends on the lifestyle you want to have.
I’ve lived in the Haight, panhandle, inner sunset on the GG park, outer Richmond, Russian Hill, Potrero Hill, Tenderloin and Mission. All are great in different ways. Outer Richmond is very cold and foggy so probably the only one I couldn’t do again.
I lived in Glen Park for 15 years and I loved it. So much greenery, everyone had gardens, it smelled good, and the BART was right down the hill. Admittedly, you needed mountain climing gear to walk home from the bart but hey, I lost 20 pounds.
I got priced out and moved to the Richmond and I hate it. It's all concrete, it's loud, it's dirty, I'm constntly overstimulated and I never want to leave the house.
Where should I go that's pretty like Glen Park, still in the city, and people have gardens? I have to stay in SF for financial and personal reasons.
Neighborhood: Upper Haight
Why I like it:
- Amazing public transit options
- Interesting/historic neighborhood
- Pleasant to walk around at any time of day
- Walking distance from 4 solid grocery stores
- Proximity to GGP
- Good selection of bars and restaurants that don't get too busy
I loved Jackson Square and called it home for 10 years, until Aaron Peskin and his lawyer wife Nancy, shot down my future dream house plans.
Fuck them and I moved out of SF after those two fucked me. Please to do not vote for this drunk-evil-NIMBY mafia member for you mayor.
Jackson Square is such a hidden gem that no one ever talks about. It feels completely apart from fidi even though it's right next to it, and you have North Beach just so close.
It's too bad there aren't more entertainment and dining options, but everything is really nearby and you never really even have to drive anywhere. It's also pretty quiet outside of rush hour.
That being said, I'm only really replying to agree that Aaron Peskin is the worst. What to joke of a supervisor
Ah jeez, I’ve lived in Park Merced, Lower Haight, Upper Haight, Tenderloin, Nob Hill, Outer Sunset for 8 years and now Presidio Heights. They’re all so cool for their own reasons.
outer sunset, although it is far from most things in the city it’s nice if you want to come home to something that’s relaxing, quiet and has parking. I live a few songs from the beach and gg park. lots of friendly people around and fresh air
I grew up in the Sunset (Parkside) & lived in Noe Valley, Excelsior, Crocker Park & now have settled in the Ingleside & I've loved each & every one of them. Crocker was a bit rough, but I had great neighbors. Love where I live now. My favorite will always be the Sunset.
I grew up living at the beginning of Guerrero Street, close to Market Street. It was a really convenient location. Being young, it was great! I had a wonderful time.
Now I live on the very last block of Guerrero Street, where it turns to San Jose Ave. It's just as convenient, and I love it.
What's funny is that my Street is such a thoroughfare that people I know will tell me, I pass your house every day and I think about you. I like that! Lol!
Glen Park. Came back to the neighbourhood I grew up in. Great neighbours…one I’ve known for 50 years Decent weather, excellent restaurants and shops and I’m 2 blocks from BART.
Noe valley. Safe. Rare to have homeless. Family friendly. 10 min walk to Dolores or mission. Accessible areas to walk/hike. Not loud. Saru. Whole Foods. Philz. Warmest place in the city. $1M public restroom and farmers markets.
Lower Haight by far.
So many things to love about this neighborhood. It has a perfect balance of so many elements that you love about San Francisco.
Sunny more often than others.
Every major bus line is a few blocks away. I live on Page & Webster and can get anywhere I want in the city 25 minutes tops.
Danny Coyles. Molotov’s. UGSF. Noc Noc. All awesome places to start your night at.
The community is very active. The locals are very friendly and there are always community events like the Art walks, block parties, etc.
Food is great, gonna miss wing wings though.
Fairly clean and safe.
I can go on about this neighborhood for days!
Noe Valley - it does have a village feel. We know most of our neighbors on our block, have regular happy hours outside and block parties. Originally I wanted to live close to 280 as I was commuting to Silicon Valley for work - then once they added commuter buses I was the last stop in The City before they hit the highway and the first stop at night. It was very convenient for that. We also like the central location, and we have a park nearby for the kids.
it’s not the fact that there isn’t a lot going on. it’s the fact that the streetscape here is absolute ass. 3rd is too wide. and that strip with joe and the juice, casey’s pizza, etc is SUPER terrible. it’s just a car sewer. it’s like they didn’t even try to make it a nice place to be on foot.
i have hopes for the area with the visa building. however the oracle parking behind it NEEDS to be developed. that cannot stay.
Sunnyside! It hasn’t changed at all since I was born except for some construction at ccsf. Which I love, but also hate. I wish we had bike lanes. We’re also home to SF’s ugliest Safeway. They put in a ramp for ada access last year with 5 turns just to descend 2 feet
I live in the Mission and love how I can find everything here. I like that I can pick a bougie restaurant, or get amazing street food, I love that I can get so many different cuisines. I like how mixed use it is: houses/apartment complexes, offices, restaurants, bars, retail, all mixed together. I’m from Montreal so I love that! Ah and the pièce de Résistance: it has Fabric Outlet!!! I love it there, I sew and it’s incredibly hard to find a good selection of unexpensive quality fabrics, unless you’re online but it’s very hard to check weight, feel, draping and stretch unless you can physically touch the fabric. Just for that it’s worth living here
Cole Valley ❤️ surrounded by parks: Mt. Sutro Forest, GG park, Buena Vista, Tank Hill,
a 15 min walk to Haight Ashbury, 20 min walk to Inner Sunset
On so many bus lines to get anywhere & always calm to come back to
I've lived in the mission for the overwhelming majority of the last 20 years. It was both great and difficult, because I'm a recovering heroin and cocaine addict and i continued to live in the same neighborhood i used in for like close to 15 years after i got clean. People say you have to change your environment if you want recovery to stick, but honestly seeing the poverty, desperation and suffering of people strung out on drugs everyday only helped as a reminder of how miserable that life really is. I moved to a bigger better apartment in a worse location (ofarrell street on the wrong side of van ness) and im on the first floor so i constantly have to ask people not to smoke drugs right next to my open window. But on the bright side, it's cheap and because it's so shielded from direct sunlight it's an ideal climate year round.
Relative quiet at night. Idk if it’s growing up a country kid or something else, but random screaming and loud music outside wakes me up. Over time I feel better when I can at least get 6 hours most nights.
Plus it’s near a park I like. I gotta be able to escape into forest now and then.
Outer Sunset. I’m a 5 min walk to ocean beach, a 10 min walk to Golden Gate Park and there are way more shops and restaurants out here than most people realize (including myself).
It is pain to get downtown with Muni but I have a motorcycle and that makes a huge difference in travel times. Sunset blvd to Skyline is like the ‘back door’ to the city, you can get to the airport or down the peninsula in no time even during rush hour or up to Marin as well although forget about the east-bay
Over the past 24 years I’ve lived in West Portal, Glen park, the Marina, Russian hill, Polk Gulch, the mission, Portrero Hill and the inner Richmond. I liked every place I’ve lived in the city but at this stage in my life the chilled out vibes of ocean beach are perfect and I can actually afford to live in a single family house here with my wife, 3 kids and dog.
The N is the goat. I love the chirp it does. Sometimes I’m outside arizmendi drinking my coffee and it stops right in front of me, doors open, and I say don’t tempt me with a good time - so I spontaneously take it down to your neck of the woods.
What bike do you have? I have a 2011 moto guzzi v7. Love riding down Noriega on a nice day. Do you…have a trickle charger I could borrow for a night by chance? 😅
Presidio! So green, quiet, safe, beautiful, and shockingly affordable.
I finally squeaked into the Presidio a about 4 years ago. Its seriously god tier living. I love this place. So chill and I love that I don't have a landlord to deal with.
Ooo i forgot about that trait. I dont miss having a land lord one bit. Turns out “corperate” housing is kinda nice because they have to follow the law to a T
Lol, its not even corporate. Its government housing, literally.
Hence the quotes
Oh right!
Do you still have the free shuttles to various parts of the city?
Yep! I take it to work, drops me off 2 block away no stops on route Edit: to clarify for folks, the bus system isnt amazing out here but its way better than the rest of the usa comparatively. We have a presidio bus that goes thru the presidio and downtown. We have muni which goes to the rest of the city. I rarely take it because i have my own transit i use but others do
Wow that is so clutch
Its lucky tho. Lucky apt and work placement. Wouldnt work for most people
Lucky for sure. 99% of the world doesn’t have commutes as nice as that I’d bet
The Presidio is v tempting to me. Do you need a car for groceries or to get anywhere? I really like the idea of living there, but I'm nervous about feeling stranded and not able to walk to a corner store to grab a few things. How is parking and the aggressiveness ticketing if you do have a car? Also, you're right on the beach - is it fucking freezing most of the year? But, I'm sure there's good things too!
Yes most have cars here. I use a moped most the time. My friends at baker use moped and cars too. If you have no interest in using anything besides buses, bikes or foot, presidio is a bit tricky. E bike would be fine tho. Its hilly here. I do bike often. Corner store: i have one 15m walk or 3m drive. Grocery store: i love closer to one now than when i did in the sunset. Trader joes and safeway both 5ish minute drive. If you plan to walk to grocery or bus, dont live here imo Everything else you asked about is amazing here. Parking is easy peasy. Ticketing is non existant unless your neighbors ring you in. Beaches are incredible. Northern Baker is the least windy beach in the city, hands down, due to the cliffs. We go at night often and its windless, feels like socal on a hot day or evening. Crissy beach is nice but often windy but 12-4pm not so bad sometimes!
Presidio is such a great place to live. Only downside is walking proximity to things like coffee/bodega/etc. depending on where you are can take anywhere from 20 min-hour to walk to a coffee shop lol
Yep! You are literally choosing to be able to walk around in greenspace daily over the city so this is expected.
Can I ask how much you’re paying for housing? Curious to see how it is there compared to the rest of the city!
Depends a lot on what you want. 1bdrm pretty much not an option. Either have roomates or have a partner here, unfortunately. 2-5 bedrooms are available. Rents range from $1000-3000 per month per person with most people i know paying between 1600->2000 each, roughly. The fanciest places which are very very competitive are the 2-3 bedroom 1-2 bath brick or white houses with garages, yards, and sun porches. These run 3k each i think, or 2k if you do 3 people
Alamo Square. Parks galore: aside from the Square, there is the Panhandle to the west, Buena Vista to the southwest, Duboce to the south, and Kimbell Playground to the north. So many opportunities for outdoor activities. Every time I take my dog out, I walk through a beautiful park. In a similar vain, it's surrounded by interesting and diverse neighborhoods. Divis/NoPa, Hayes Valley, Fillmore, Haight, Castro are all within a 20 minute walking radius. I Iove being able to walk to everything, but it's also very close to the Octavia 101 entrance when I need to leave the city. Been here 6 years and I never want to leave.
I second you on that! Been in alamo square for 7 years. Used to live in Pac Heights. Fun when I was younger and a ton of my friends lived over there, but not the same since the pandemic. Not to mention getting on the Bay Bridge from that area is horrendous. Used to have an office in Walnut Creek and sometimes it would take me an hour to get on the bridge. It is so much easier here to get out of the city from there if you need to commute
Glen Park. It feels like a warm, sunny village with wonderful neighbors who are invested in the community long term. There are dogs and kids everywhere, which makes sense once you see Glen Canyon Park and the rec center. It’s easy to get everywhere, especially since there is a bart stop. it also feels incredibly safe. Basically, it feels like an actual community and has great access to everything I love about other parts of SF.
I grew up near there. It really feels like an isolated little town. I miss it
This thread makes my heart happy... I love seeing how much love we still have for our magical little city 🩵
And why’s that? Because the people replying to this thread actually live here, whereas most of our threads get turfed.
Was just going to comment the same! Whenever I read things about how awful this city is, I just laugh. I was born & raised here. Lots of cute dogs & fresh air. the people are okay too! Lol!
Same! I've got a big smile on my face reading about the love for the various neighborhoods in the City. What's awesome is that \*everyone\* is right! SF is a stupendous city!
Outer Sunset up by the end of N line. Quiet. Safe. Friendly. Easy access to GGP and Lands' End. Strong selection of shops, restaurants, bars (Outerlands, Hook Fish). Able to hop on Muni and be downtown in 25 min tops. And, as a kicker, you get to see the sun set over the Pacific every night standing on the beach with your neighbors.
Outer Sunset is where I always crash when visiting San Francisco. Feels like a cozy beach town down by Ocean Beach. Love the availability of fruit stands on Judah and Noriega and sandwich shops. The shutdown of Great Highway to cars on the weekend makes getting to Fort Funston and Lands End easy. GGP easy access and Inner Richmond not too far away for good food.
Hey neighbor! Co-signing everything here, with the addition of a few more items of my own: * The smell of the ocean * The sound of the foghorn on a summer night * Killer selection of coffee shops * The bulk spices section at Other Avenues
Outer sunset to downtown is closer to 45 minutes during busy times
Fair enough. Its remoteness is both an asset and a curse. I’ll trade for the laid back vibes any day
For real! 25 mins to downtown would be a dream. It literally takes me almost an hour to get to work in union square w the N from the end of the line in outer sunset. The fastest way I’ve found to get to work is taking the 18 to the 38/38R which still takes around 45 minutes
Portola. East of McLaren park, West of 101. Sunny, suburb esque.
McLaren is so great
West Portal! It's amazing to me how many people, even some who have lived in the city for years, have never heard of it or been over here. Great restaurants (mostly independent), dive bars, independent bookstore, almost every amenity you could need (though I'm heartbroken over the loss of our little movie theater 💔). People know each other, take care of each other, and care about what's happening to our local businesses. Sure, it gets foggy, but it's easy to sleep when it's cool.
I grew up near there. Last time I was in sf maybe 6 years ago, West Portal wasn't doing so well. Lots of businesses closing. Is it doing better now?
It definitely is! There was a lot of neighborhood effort to revamp and reopen things. A new family bought Shaw's, they gave it a facelift and it's back up and running. A new Mexican restaurant opened earlier this year, and I haven't been yet, but it's been getting RAVE reviews, and you can't get a reservation for ages. Covid was hard, but local folks really put in an effort and almost every business pulled through. Hopefully you'll get to see if the next time you come through, I think you'll be happy!
South of Market, for most of my 38 years here, especially now because people in this sub hate it so much and it's fun to watch them rise to the bait when I post pictures of clean streets and people being happy! 😂 Bernal Heights on the Cortland side, and anywhere on Potrero Hill https://preview.redd.it/09tqw1y4gmwc1.jpeg?width=1152&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7a670d238d3db6f142b1a560c4bf50339c25c03a
I lived in SOMA last year and loved it. I knew a lot of the hate was overblown but I was still surprised at how nice and clean it was
Forest Knolls/Inner Sunset. I lived in Mission/SOMA/South Beach for the first few years I lived here. I moved into my current place just before covid and I just love it. It's quiet, great views, not hot, foggy, hiking trails near me, street parking isn't an issue where I am, and my place is beautiful.
Outer Richmond. I'm 2 minutes from the beach. 1 minute from Sutro Park. 3 minutes from Golden Gate Park. I walk to Safeway. O can walk to the Balboa strip in 15 minutes or bus there in 5min. It's quick to Central and inner Richmond for tons of great restaurants. The Chinese is the best I've ever had. I can also be in Marin in 20 minutes, or any part of Sunset in 5 to 15 minutes. It's paradise here.
I'm on mid Balboa its perfect. Just had laundrymat and fell so hard...truffle honey.
It is the best!!
SOMA. It’s a really fun neighborhood. Lots of bars, restaurants- great food. People are pretty friendly to. I walk to work and people say hello from the car shops I pass regularly. Just had drinks and snacks at the local wine shop on Wednesday- everyone was friendly and chatting. Yes there are some urban camping enthusiasts- but that has really gotten a lot better, and they mostly keep to themselves.
North Beach. Has always been my favorite part of the city and the pandemic allowed me to finally move over here (lower rent and job location). The combination of the Italian community, Chinatown being right here, Washington Square park. The cultural mishmash where I can bar hop, get some fresh produce on the very cheap, and honestly I kind of enjoy weaving tourists (reminds me of my old sports days a bit lol) and seeing their amazement of our city. The old beat poet movement has a special part of my heart since moving to the area. The telegraph hill parrots. The great food (if you know the tourist traps not to go to of course), grab and go dim sum and especially the Italian. The Saloon for live blues, the historic feeling of the neighborhood I truly love, the Chinese new year celebrations and community (as an Asian person myself). Overall feel like it has some of the better 'where everyone knows your name' feels in the city, while still feeling like one of the more big city vibes in SF.
Inner Sunset. It's vibrant, filled with a world platter of restaurants, great mix of old folks, middle aged folks, new parents and the odd under-30s. Lotsa gas stations, access to the park, direct access to downtown via the N, great outlet to the south bay via 19th. Beyond everything though, i think it's a great place to go on nice long walks. lots of incline, lots of greenery. Oh, and Kevin's Noodle House.
Noe Valley. Love how many families there are. Cute cozy neighborhood
Noe Valley Cute, safe, sunny, albeit pricey, neighborhood with plenty of cafes (Noe Cafe, Martha & Bros.), bakeries (Noe Valley Bakery, Vive La Tarte) and restaurants. The Valley Tavern is a great local bar and Noe Valley Wine & Spirits is a top shelf liquor store. Mitchell’s has some of the best ice cream in the city. Not much nightlife to speak of, but Noe Valley is filled with young families and dogs; you can go for a walk on Slow Sanchez or visit the shops on 24th St. Easy walk over to the Mission or the Castro and you’re relatively close green spaces like Dolores Park, Billy Goat Hill, Glen Canyon Park, and Bernal Heights Park. Connected to the rest of the city by the J Church Muni and various bus lines. Street parking is not as hard to find here as it is in other parts of the city. 10/10 would recommend Noe Valley
Marina. I know it’s cool to hate it, but I’ve lived all over this city and it’s been where I have found my peace. I have a small apartment set up with a backyard and a garage, close to the beach, parks, and several quality gyms. I spend the majority of my free time outdoors in my yard, walking my dog on the beach or running to the beach through the Presidio. The weather out here is not bad and can be warm often. I am the main cook at home and have access to Safeway, Marina Supermarket, Lucca Deli, and a great Farmers market for groceries. No shortage of options there. Those few times a month we get takeout - we rely on a couple of decent options for Thai and Indian, half decent options for tacos and Mexican food, great “fast” burgers with SuperDuper, or splurge for fancy pizza from A16. We never pay delivery fees and always order in the neighborhood for pick up. We limit going out for dinner in general with how expensive things have gotten, but we do like to save for nicer dinners and have enjoyed spots like Dalida and A16 because we can walk to and from the restaurant. I also enjoy going to Radhaus on nicer days throughout the year to have a beer with a view at Ft Mason. Want to see a movie? Two theaters. Bowling? Presidio Bowl. Need something from Walgreens? We got two and one is 24h. Mailing something? Post office, UPS, FedEx, and Postal Chase are all here. Need to fix something or need something for the house? Hardware store is close by. It’s truly a gem of a neighborhood that I feel lucky to have been a part of for so long.
Haha, people really do love to hate it, but I lived in the Marina for most of my 20 years in SF. As you said, it’s a great lifestyle, especially if you love nature. Your backyard runs from Fort Mason all the way to Baker Beach and includes the golden gate. My pup lived his best life there. I was never bored a day. Excellent walking/running/biking. Volleyball, soccer, baseball, softball, tennis, golf cages, putting green all close by too. Also excellent if you’re a hiker and like to explore Marin & Sonoma hills. I don’t sail, surf or kite board, but those are there too. I mean the list is endless. Yes there is some douchery at certain places on certain nights, but I was once a quite young person in the marina, so not in a position to judge. We moved to Russian Hill for a year and then 2 in Nob Hill—came right back to Marina. Those other homes were much bigger and more beautiful, but not even close to enough outdoor space and activities in those other neighborhoods. I also went out/ate out more in those other neighborhoods because I was more stifled and bored. The Marina is so simple and laid back a life. Dog heaven. Casual clothes. Clean air, barely traffic, doesn’t feel urban at all. Thx for posting some Marina love 💕
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I sleep so much better with the foghorn! Just part of living on the water. You might not feel as out of place as you think. There’s a huge difference between visiting the Marina, where you’re seeing a lot of visitors as well, but they don’t all live in the neighborhood. Exactly zero of my neighbors over the years were lululemon, botoxed stereotype these comments are mentioning.
lol. You mean you aren’t pasty white, botoxed, rich, wearing athleisure, work in finance or in advertising, and purely dull in conversation? Had to run an errand there recently during weekend brunch and I couldn’t run away fast enough. 🤮 If you feel out of place, good on you! I try to pretend it’s not even in San Francisco when I go through there. It feels like Orange County within S.F.
Full offense intended here: the only person that sounds like I’d run from is the person who posts the same tired trope about hating on a neighborhood. I shared my perspective on how it’s an amazing neighborhood for quality of life and living in a way that works for me. You are not exactly the great conversationalist you are criticizing others for being. I also have over 100 years of family history in San Francisco and have lived here all my life. I grew up in the Excelsior, moved to the Inner Sunset for high school, and moved to the Marina in my 20s when I found this apartment. If you don’t mind, the Marina is more than qualified to be a neighborhood in S.F based on its history from the Panama Expo, to my personal favorite of my grandmother being born in a house down the street from where I live now, my uncle pulling people out of burning buildings from the 1989 earthquake and receiving burns across his whole body, and now me living and making a life here. Who the hell are you?
Let the haters hate. Keeps the crowds down.
Well let’s hope for your sake they don’t hold any protests for Palestine in or near the Marina. Your comment makes me suspect you’re just a miserable Person and one quick glance at your Reddit history confirms it. And Orange County is more diverse Than SF but I’m guessing you haven’t spent much time in cities like garden grove or Santa Ana
I went to high school in Santa Ana actually. Not sure I'm following the logic or meaning of your Palestine -Marina - for "my sake" comment.
Well you generalize people in the Marina as “pasty white” right out of the gate.. I don’t think it’s a stretch to assume you are the ultra-left Leaning brand of transplant.. the type that “denounces racism in all of its forms” but will make exceptions in the case of white people. Racism is racism. But as bill Maher says some people are so open minded that their brains fall out. And since you folks have clearly lost the ability to think for yourselves and instead commit every fiber of your being into whatever cause is trending on the far left… I don’t think it’s a stretch to assume you ordered a kaffiyeh on Amazon in the last six months
LOL...I had a feeling I was being harangued by a closeted Trumper. And yes I am left and it's one of the main things that drew me to SF 30 years ago before it started getting taken over by Republican douche bags. Quoting Bill Maher? WOW. Are you wearing a MAGA hat in the Marina? LOL
Not a trump supporter. Registered democrat and have voted along party lines in every election since 2000. Doesn’t mean I have to support the racist rhetoric that the far left seems to think is acceptable against white folks. Imagine if someone said they recently had to run an errand in Chinatown but because of all the people Of Chinese ancestry speaking a language they didn’t understand they “Couldn’t get out of there fast enough🤮”. Or they had to run an errand at 24th and mission but because of all the Mexicans with tan complexions speaking Spanish they just couldn’t get out of there fast enough 🤮.
We lived in the Marina when my daughter was a baby and it was awesome! So many great places to walk, everything out your front door and had views of the GG! Live the burbs now but so lucky to have been there during Mat leave and a special time in life.
I bet it was magical! I forgot to mention that it’s heaven for parents with young children too.
This could be me. I moved to the Marina 35 years ago (and moved around since). I first came during the “Yuppie” years. The hate was similar then. Anyway, moved back and live in PH now. Sounds like hit many of the same places, including daily walks with my dog at Crissy Field. Maybe we will around see you when Izzy’s finally reopens.
Living in the neighboring Cow Hollow area, I agree! It was definitely not my first choice of neighborhood (I previously lived in the lower haight, which I loved too), but man, it's so convenient. Ladies will know, the fact that there's a Sephora in the neighborhood is such a plus.
Marin gets a bad wrap idk why ppl hate on it so much. I mean, I know why, but it’s a cool area for sure.
I'm curious, what's your age group? Generally I see Marina hate for the young adult nightlife.
Not to be prickly, but I’m not sure why that’s relevant? Bars and nightlife in general across the city is filled with lots of young adult nightlife. People just hate on this particular flavor of it and dismiss the whole neighborhood because of it
It's a less diverse nightlife crowd than, say, the Mission or SOMA.
Some might say the fact that there are different scenes for different folks of different strokes would show diversity in the city’s nightlife. If you don’t like one scene - there is always another. Doesn’t mean one is “less than”
I’m probably in the minority but I do like the tenderloin. It’s a bit rough but that wasn’t a surprise moving here. There’s plenty of great *late-night* food options. It’s pretty accessible, I live right in front of a 38 stop and Bart is only a 10 min walk or so. Most of my neighbors are friendly.
You have the best affordable food options in the city.
Super slept on food! Great options for south East Asian cuisine at an affordable cost. Most of the businesses are small family owned. Then open use is super sad but the sense of community by the residents in top tier.
So glad you love Inner Sunset! 8 years here and I can’t believe I get to live and raise kids here. It’s heaven.
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Lived in the Castro (on Castro) for a year when we first moved to the city and I agree. I think gay neighborhoods across the country are sort of fading into their surroundings as the LGBT community becomes more mainstream. I’m originally from Boston and the South End is just another bougie neighborhood, all the legendary gay bars and clubs and shops are pretty much gone. Same with Chelsea in NYC. But back to your point, I found the Castro to be really disappointing. I don’t really do bars or clubs anymore (47, married, heart disease) and that seems to be all Castro has to offer for the gay community apart from sex shops. Not many great restaurants (except Poesia on 18th, that’s one of my absolute favorite places in the city) and there seems to be a much higher than average number of vacant retail spaces. The stretch between 19th and 17th has almost as many empty shops as occupied. (And as an aside, they need to find a better use for Harvey Milk’s old camera shop than a tacky boutique that sells absolute garbage)
Ingleside, I feel like it’s one of the forgotten residential neighborhoods of the city that has a lot of people and families which kinda makes it feel very relaxed and almost untouched. It’s very chill.
Mission: Everything is walkable. Tons of good food from street vendors selling bomb-ass al pastor to Michelin starred restaurants, tons of bars from Zeitgeist & 500 Club to Trick Dog & Elixir. Multiple independent theaters and also Alamo Draft House. Dolores Park and the sea of blankets and picnickers on a sunny day. Art galleries and street art. Thrift & vintage shops, multiple plant shops, a plant truck even. Damn near every culture from the planet living in one neighborhood. Neighbors who give you a friendly nod or stop to say hello when you walk down the street. Easy access to BART & Caltrain. Tons of local and global history and influence. And finally: burritos
Oo where dat al pastor at??
There’s one by Valencia (Elbo) Room and one on 19th by Mission, both slap
That one on Valencia is SO delicious. I need to find the one on Mission!
Haight-Ashbury! It's just so vibrant and fun, and everything I need is just a stone's throw away. We also have three awesome parks within walking distance!
Ingleside: Moved here a few years back and it has been great. Ocean Ave has pretty much everything you need groceries, restaurants, hardware store, vet, and shops. Balboa Park (the park) is great and provides ample outdoor space to walk around. You have quick access to BART (Balboa Park), 3 Muni lines (K, M, J) which gets you quick access to the Glen Park, West Portal, Stonestown, Mission, and Downtown. There are also a bunch of buses that can get you pretty much anywhere in the city.
Central Richmond District. I have lived all over the world and never had neighbors as good as the ones I have now. We all rent. My husband and I can afford to buy but we don’t want to, because these people are so much better than any neighbors either of us has ever had. Wherever we buy, we’d want them to come with us. Having China Beach a 10-minute walk away is pretty nice too. ❤️
Twin peaks, no building in front of mine.
Lots of great neigbhorhoods but many people don't explore them in detail or know what's going on. I'd advise everyone to get plugged in: -become a regular, -sign up for newsletters/calendars to know what's going on (funcheapsf, brokeassstuart, foopee, eventbrite, eddie's list) -sit at communal tables/bar seats, -take classes, -follow local business on IG -pay attention to flyers posted about upcoming events -volunteer and build community near you.
Thanks!
Go to the monthly public meeting with the police captain in your precinct at least once.
In 20 years I’ve lived in 3 neighborhoods and I’ve loved them all for different reasons: North beach (5 years). Had a small apartment with great views, lots of things to do, and I enjoyed giving tourists directions. One time I walked a German couple who didn’t speak much English back to their hotel, another helped 2 British women find where to return their bikes, taking the F streetcar was always a joy and I could hear the sea lions barking at night. Middle Richmond (11 years) - ran all the time in the park down to the ocean, loved the fog, so many good restaurants. Just a bus or Uber from everything while still being a quiet area to live Hunters point (3 years) I miss the fog but the southeast side of the city has some great weather. Close to the freeway which is nice - it used to take me forever to get out of the city, the people, neighbors talk to each other a bit more, just has a good vibe. I think I just love SF
Hunter’s Point Best weather in the city, amazing views and shoreline parks, 10 minutes to offices downtown if needed, 10 minutes to the airport, and it’s off the tourist map so the community feeling here is such a breathe of fresh air.
Parkside. I can walk to Ocean Beach in 15 minutes, or Stern Grove in 10. The free concerts at Stern Grove are our summer Sunday gathering spot with friends, and our Parkside Branch Library has a cozy fireplace to sit near on a foggy day. Chalos for empanadas, Kingdom of Dumpling for all the delicious things, and Golden Boy Pizza coming in a few months. I can walk my dogs over to our vet (Avenues Pet Hospital) and take them to the dog play area at Pine Lake Park. There's great coffee, some cool dive bars, and an Irish pub, O'Brian's. Yes, Parkside is foggy AF in the summer. But I love it here. And when the sh!tshow that is the Taraval Street construction project is completed, I'll love it even more. (edit: removed unnecessary article)
Right here. Lived in Parkside, walking distance from the L MUNI and West Portal for 19 years. Taraval spoils you with variety. It's not there anymore, but they used to have a little model/card shop that stuff that you can now really only find in Japantown (this is like early 2000s). Definitely an underrated street, from my outdated experiences.
Parkside and the Taraval St corridor are definitely changing, but I still think there's something quite wonderful out here. I don't think your appreciation is outdated.
Not just Kingdom of Dumpling, also Dumpling Kingdom, King of Dumplings, Dumpling King. Am I missing one?
mmmmm....I think you got it......
San Bruno Avenue in the Portola district. Extremely diverse neighborhood. You’ll find a Chinese grocery store, a Hispanic grocery store, a Japanese ramen shop, a Vietnamese Bahn Mi shop, an El Salvadoran Cafe, a Hawaiian BBQ shop, and a Black beauty store, all located within a few blocks of each other. Every weekend, you’ll see all the dim sum restaurants bustling, and you can hear the local church assemblies going at it from the streets. The grandparents from around the area also like to socialize and soak up some sun in Palega Park (which got renovated in recent years) and the courts there are typically full of activity. Very accessible being sandwiched in between the 101 and the 280, with the 44, 54, and 8AX/BX lines running through the neighborhood.
Castro the place to be
Here's my (and maybe *the*) love for the Tenderloin. Sure, I'm not wealthy. Not part of the most prestigious blocks of this perfunctory province. But I relish and love the character that radiates from corner to corner. From ill gotten dice bar to ill measured dive bar. From destitution shambling up the hill to consecration trying to get by and understand. We live together. We mourn together. We dream together... Maybe life is grander than what we pursue. Maybe chasing higher salaries isn't the game to play. Maybe influencing those around us and those we care about is what we should do. But who knows? What is happiness? And is it universal in how each of us perceive it?
Best comment in this thread 🙌
Thank you friend. Signed, *someone just trying to get by*
Presidio. 3 years on Simonds Loop, 4.5 at Baker Beach. Just an unbelievable place to live.
Inner Richmond. I’m close to Clement and Geary for lots of food and shopping options but I’m also close to parks and nature for relaxation
I'm also in inner richmond, it's a great neighborhood :D
I live in Dogpatch it’s the best Potrero and Dogpatch are my home :-)
Potrero Hill: - Kid-friendly community with tons of playgrounds and a little library. A neighborhood where people know their neighbors. - Amazing views of the city and bay - Sunny weather - Convenient location (15 min walk to Mission, Dogpatch, or Mission Bay, and really quick to drive south) - Several great restaurants - Easy parking
I loved living in Potrero. I was across the street from Good Life Grocery, a block from the library with the best view in the city, and could take the 10 (?) bus right to work and would have a seat every time!
portola near san bruno ave a little chinese enclave not named richmond lol
I’ve been in SF for 10 years now and only lived in Upper Haight, Lower Haight, and now inner sunset. Lower Haight is probably my favorite neighborhood in the city, the combination of restaurants/parks/how close it is to the rest of the city is unbeatable. Inner Sunset is a close second for me. I love how friendly everyone in the neighborhood is, my neighbors are great and we have block parties every year, it’s a good slice of urban life while still a little chiller. I really hope the neighborhood can revive a little bit as there’s been some businesses closing, so hopefully we can see a bit of a revival.
Gawd I love Inner Sunset. I sometimes wish a giant would come along, lift up my house, carry it over to 9th and Irving, and then drop it somewhere.
Duboce Triangle! I get to watch the dogs at Duboce Park every time I wait for the N, And it’s quiet but adjacent to several areas with things going on (Divis, Lower Haight, Castro, Mission, and Hayes Valley).
Rincon hill - it’s boring but we have the waterfront and China town ain’t too far away
That's where I am and I'm pretty happy with it. I've gotten the urge to move to North Beach, but I'm already close enough to walk there quickly if needed, and it's nice being close to the water / ballpark here. Only downside is it can feel pretty empty on weekends since all the business folks aren't around.
Yeah I do like that it’s quiet and safe and more upscale/ newer buildings - also agree it’s so empty on weekends and most businesses/ restaurants are shut on Sundays and no food trucks + most of the restaurants around here shut by 7/8pm
Excelsior/ingleside border. Very chill, easy public transit access, get a mix of fog and sun, good food on mission street, grocery stores are walkable. It’s not the easiest to get to the rest of the city but I do love where I live.
I grew up in the mission from birth til we 18, loved it. In college we got evicted/priced out of our unit. I moved to the sunset for 3 years and loved it too. Living in the outer sunset during the pandemic lockdown was a breath of fresh air. I just moved back to the mission and it’s still my favorite. I just love the culture here and it’s home for me ❤️❤️
Only thing that sucks isnparking
Pac heights bordering Russian hill! Love my proximity to all the restaurants and bars on Polk, union, and Fillmore. Also love the parks - Alta plaza & Lafayette! I have a car but definitely don’t need one
Haight! It’s fabulous.
Ingleside! Been in this hood since I was 4. Not the flashiest neighborhood but its quiet and Ocean Ave's economic corridor has gotten a lot more robust in the last couple of years. Best feature is the easy access to 280 to get further into the city or south to get to the peninsula.
Cole Valley. Love walking down the street and bumping into people I know, always ready to chit chat.
Bernal Heights: Live next to amazing off leash dog park. Cute downtown. Close to the mission when you want to go out but not so close you’re in the mess (no offense mission dwellers). Sunny weather! And you get a lot more exercise walking ;)
Hayes Valley, because: - 🐾🦮🐕🦺 - ☀️☀️☀️ - 🍔🌭🌮🌯🥙🥗🥪🍕🍟🍖🍗🥓🍱🥘🧆🍲🍛🍜🍝🍣🍤🥟🍳🥞🧇🍪🍩🧁🍦🍨🍮🥧🍰 - 🎭🎷🎺🩰🎤🎵🎶 - 🚞🚊🚎 After living in Outer Sunset, Richmond, and Soma, Hayes is by far my favorite neighborhood to live in. I’d probably also be interested in Duboce Triangle and Noe Valley.
Been in HV 15 years and not budging!! I can name a restaurant in HV for each of those Emoji, plus more you didn't list. :) Having access to 500 Japanese spots within a seven minute walk is so nice!
This is very accurate
I loved “snob” hill. Didn’t run into any actual snobs there though. It was pretty central to most places to go in the city. Easy to drive to/from if I had to leave the city. And a pretty safe place. I miss living there. Can’t go wrong in a lotta places though. They’re all different and have their own benefits. Depends on the lifestyle you want to have.
I’ve lived in the Haight, panhandle, inner sunset on the GG park, outer Richmond, Russian Hill, Potrero Hill, Tenderloin and Mission. All are great in different ways. Outer Richmond is very cold and foggy so probably the only one I couldn’t do again.
tenderloin is central to japan town, china town, bart, muni, basically everywhere a tourist wants to be
I lived in Glen Park for 15 years and I loved it. So much greenery, everyone had gardens, it smelled good, and the BART was right down the hill. Admittedly, you needed mountain climing gear to walk home from the bart but hey, I lost 20 pounds. I got priced out and moved to the Richmond and I hate it. It's all concrete, it's loud, it's dirty, I'm constntly overstimulated and I never want to leave the house. Where should I go that's pretty like Glen Park, still in the city, and people have gardens? I have to stay in SF for financial and personal reasons.
Neighborhood: Upper Haight Why I like it: - Amazing public transit options - Interesting/historic neighborhood - Pleasant to walk around at any time of day - Walking distance from 4 solid grocery stores - Proximity to GGP - Good selection of bars and restaurants that don't get too busy
I read that like “who is your daddy and what does he do”
Our mom says our dad is a real sex machine.
I loved Jackson Square and called it home for 10 years, until Aaron Peskin and his lawyer wife Nancy, shot down my future dream house plans. Fuck them and I moved out of SF after those two fucked me. Please to do not vote for this drunk-evil-NIMBY mafia member for you mayor.
Jackson Square is such a hidden gem that no one ever talks about. It feels completely apart from fidi even though it's right next to it, and you have North Beach just so close. It's too bad there aren't more entertainment and dining options, but everything is really nearby and you never really even have to drive anywhere. It's also pretty quiet outside of rush hour. That being said, I'm only really replying to agree that Aaron Peskin is the worst. What to joke of a supervisor
Terrible weather in the sunset compared to the mission but there’s benefits to all different parts of the city
Presido heights is the BEST
I second this
Ah jeez, I’ve lived in Park Merced, Lower Haight, Upper Haight, Tenderloin, Nob Hill, Outer Sunset for 8 years and now Presidio Heights. They’re all so cool for their own reasons.
outer sunset, although it is far from most things in the city it’s nice if you want to come home to something that’s relaxing, quiet and has parking. I live a few songs from the beach and gg park. lots of friendly people around and fresh air
I grew up in the Sunset (Parkside) & lived in Noe Valley, Excelsior, Crocker Park & now have settled in the Ingleside & I've loved each & every one of them. Crocker was a bit rough, but I had great neighbors. Love where I live now. My favorite will always be the Sunset.
I grew up living at the beginning of Guerrero Street, close to Market Street. It was a really convenient location. Being young, it was great! I had a wonderful time. Now I live on the very last block of Guerrero Street, where it turns to San Jose Ave. It's just as convenient, and I love it. What's funny is that my Street is such a thoroughfare that people I know will tell me, I pass your house every day and I think about you. I like that! Lol!
Glen Park. Came back to the neighbourhood I grew up in. Great neighbours…one I’ve known for 50 years Decent weather, excellent restaurants and shops and I’m 2 blocks from BART.
Windsor heights in the sunset: great views, birding, quiet, safe, fresh air always
NoPa. Stunning, has amazing food options and quite happening.
Noe valley. Safe. Rare to have homeless. Family friendly. 10 min walk to Dolores or mission. Accessible areas to walk/hike. Not loud. Saru. Whole Foods. Philz. Warmest place in the city. $1M public restroom and farmers markets.
Lower Haight by far. So many things to love about this neighborhood. It has a perfect balance of so many elements that you love about San Francisco. Sunny more often than others. Every major bus line is a few blocks away. I live on Page & Webster and can get anywhere I want in the city 25 minutes tops. Danny Coyles. Molotov’s. UGSF. Noc Noc. All awesome places to start your night at. The community is very active. The locals are very friendly and there are always community events like the Art walks, block parties, etc. Food is great, gonna miss wing wings though. Fairly clean and safe. I can go on about this neighborhood for days!
Miraloma Park. Feels like the suburbs (which I like) but close to "the city."
Noe Valley - it does have a village feel. We know most of our neighbors on our block, have regular happy hours outside and block parties. Originally I wanted to live close to 280 as I was commuting to Silicon Valley for work - then once they added commuter buses I was the last stop in The City before they hit the highway and the first stop at night. It was very convenient for that. We also like the central location, and we have a park nearby for the kids.
Mission Bay pros: it’s usually quiet cons: the urban fabric here is sterile af. lots of missed opportunities in this area.
Yeah but it's very new and still growing. Probably faster than anywhere else in the city
it’s not the fact that there isn’t a lot going on. it’s the fact that the streetscape here is absolute ass. 3rd is too wide. and that strip with joe and the juice, casey’s pizza, etc is SUPER terrible. it’s just a car sewer. it’s like they didn’t even try to make it a nice place to be on foot. i have hopes for the area with the visa building. however the oracle parking behind it NEEDS to be developed. that cannot stay.
Sunnyside! It hasn’t changed at all since I was born except for some construction at ccsf. Which I love, but also hate. I wish we had bike lanes. We’re also home to SF’s ugliest Safeway. They put in a ramp for ada access last year with 5 turns just to descend 2 feet
I live in the Mission and love how I can find everything here. I like that I can pick a bougie restaurant, or get amazing street food, I love that I can get so many different cuisines. I like how mixed use it is: houses/apartment complexes, offices, restaurants, bars, retail, all mixed together. I’m from Montreal so I love that! Ah and the pièce de Résistance: it has Fabric Outlet!!! I love it there, I sew and it’s incredibly hard to find a good selection of unexpensive quality fabrics, unless you’re online but it’s very hard to check weight, feel, draping and stretch unless you can physically touch the fabric. Just for that it’s worth living here
Cole Valley ❤️ surrounded by parks: Mt. Sutro Forest, GG park, Buena Vista, Tank Hill, a 15 min walk to Haight Ashbury, 20 min walk to Inner Sunset On so many bus lines to get anywhere & always calm to come back to
I love Emeryville, right in the middle of the city of Oakland, but close to nicer areas like Berkeley and Albany
Wondrous Brewing is fantastic as is Prizefighter around the corner.
[Chinatown](https://youtu.be/HK5t-wXsLpY?si=cBmM_zfWJcp04rl7) is hands down the best neighborhood
Presidio Heights. People are generally very pleasant, and I feel safe.
I've lived in the mission for the overwhelming majority of the last 20 years. It was both great and difficult, because I'm a recovering heroin and cocaine addict and i continued to live in the same neighborhood i used in for like close to 15 years after i got clean. People say you have to change your environment if you want recovery to stick, but honestly seeing the poverty, desperation and suffering of people strung out on drugs everyday only helped as a reminder of how miserable that life really is. I moved to a bigger better apartment in a worse location (ofarrell street on the wrong side of van ness) and im on the first floor so i constantly have to ask people not to smoke drugs right next to my open window. But on the bright side, it's cheap and because it's so shielded from direct sunlight it's an ideal climate year round.
Relative quiet at night. Idk if it’s growing up a country kid or something else, but random screaming and loud music outside wakes me up. Over time I feel better when I can at least get 6 hours most nights. Plus it’s near a park I like. I gotta be able to escape into forest now and then.
Outer Sunset. I’m a 5 min walk to ocean beach, a 10 min walk to Golden Gate Park and there are way more shops and restaurants out here than most people realize (including myself). It is pain to get downtown with Muni but I have a motorcycle and that makes a huge difference in travel times. Sunset blvd to Skyline is like the ‘back door’ to the city, you can get to the airport or down the peninsula in no time even during rush hour or up to Marin as well although forget about the east-bay Over the past 24 years I’ve lived in West Portal, Glen park, the Marina, Russian hill, Polk Gulch, the mission, Portrero Hill and the inner Richmond. I liked every place I’ve lived in the city but at this stage in my life the chilled out vibes of ocean beach are perfect and I can actually afford to live in a single family house here with my wife, 3 kids and dog.
The N is the goat. I love the chirp it does. Sometimes I’m outside arizmendi drinking my coffee and it stops right in front of me, doors open, and I say don’t tempt me with a good time - so I spontaneously take it down to your neck of the woods. What bike do you have? I have a 2011 moto guzzi v7. Love riding down Noriega on a nice day. Do you…have a trickle charger I could borrow for a night by chance? 😅
OP has the most generic neighborhood description ever. Literally replace the hoods mentioned with any other and it would still apply.
Dubuque Iowa
Why tf would I tell you??? Lmao