Cost of Living in San Francisco, California in 2025

San Francisco, California Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco has risen from $2,000 in 2010 to an estimated $3,800 in 2025.
• Transportation Expenses: Monthly public transit passes cost around $81, while fuel prices average $4.50 per gallon in 2025.
• Healthcare Costs: Monthly health insurance premiums for Silver plans are approximately $650, higher than national averages.
• Income Levels: Median household income has grown steadily to about $135,000 in 2025, reflecting the city’s economic strength.

San Francisco, known for its iconic landmarks and tech-driven economy, presents a unique cost of living environment. Understanding the detailed expenses is key for potential residents and current inhabitants.

This article offers a thorough breakdown of living costs in San Francisco as of 2025, covering housing, utilities, transportation, healthcare, education and more.

1. Housing Costs in San Francisco, California

Housing costs form the largest portion of living expenses. Here is a historical overview of average rent prices for a one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco:

• 2010: $2,000
• 2015: $3,000
• 2020: $3,500
• 2024: $3,700
• 2025: $3,800 (projected)

The rent prices indicate a consistent upward trend driven by demand and limited housing supply in the city.

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2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in San Francisco, California

For homebuyers, the median home prices have escalated significantly over the past decade and a half, as reflected here:

• 2010: $700,000
• 2015: $1,000,000
• 2020: $1,400,000
• 2024: $1,500,000
• 2025: $1,550,000 (estimated)

This surge demonstrates the intense competition and desirability for real estate within San Francisco.

3. Transportation Expenses in San Francisco, California

Transportation costs include various options such as public transit and personal vehicle expenses, detailed below:

• Public Transit One-Way Fare: $3.00
• Monthly Public Transit Pass: $81.00
• Fuel Price per Gallon: $4.50
• Annual Vehicle Maintenance: $1,500

These costs reflect the city’s urban transportation infrastructure and fuel market.

4. Utility Costs in San Francisco, California

The monthly utilities for a typical residence include:

• Electricity: $120.00
• Internet: $70.00
• Total Estimated Utilities: $190.00

Utilities are influenced by consumption patterns and local providers’ rates.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in San Francisco, California

Monthly grocery costs per person average around $400.00. Dining expenses vary by restaurant type:

• Casual Dining: $20 per meal
• Mid-Range Dining: $60 per meal

These figures reflect San Francisco’s diverse food culture and pricing.

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6. Healthcare Costs in San Francisco, California

Healthcare expenses include insurance premiums and other medical costs:

• Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance: About $150 monthly
• Silver Plan Health Insurance: Around $650 monthly

The higher premiums indicate a competitive healthcare market within the state.

7. Educational Expenses in San Francisco, California

Education-related costs vary based on type of schooling:

• Public Schools: Free to attend
• Private School Tuition: Approximately $20,000 annually
• In-State University Tuition: Around $14,000 annually

These expenses should be factored in for families with school-age children and college students.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in San Francisco, California

Entertainment costs in the city typically include:

• Movie Ticket: $15
• Gym Membership: $80 per month
• Meal at Mid-Range Restaurant: $60
• Annual Entertainment Expenses: $3,000
• Personal Care Services: $1,000 annually
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: $800 annually

The vibrant lifestyle options contribute to the overall cost of living.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in San Francisco, California

Tax rates impacting residents include:

• State Income Tax: Ranges from 1% to 13.3%
• Sales Tax: Approximately 8.5%
• Property Tax Rate: Around 0.73%

Understanding these tax burden elements is important for budgeting.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in San Francisco, California

Families will want to account for child-related costs such as:

• Daycare: About $2,000 monthly
• After-School Programs: $500 monthly
• Extracurricular Activities: $300 monthly

These expenses represent a significant component for households with young children.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in San Francisco, California

Monthly expenditures for apparel and personal care typically are:

• Clothing: Around $150
• Personal Care Products and Services: Approximately $75

Costs vary with personal lifestyle and preferences.

12. Insurance Costs in San Francisco, California

Insurance premiums include:

• Health Insurance: About $650 monthly for Silver plans
• Auto Insurance: Approximately $1,800 annually
• Homeowners Insurance: Around $1,200 annually
• Renters Insurance: Estimated $200 annually

These provide vital financial security against potential risks.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in San Francisco, California

Additional living costs cover:

• Entertainment: Estimated $3,000 yearly
• Personal Care Services: $1,000 annually
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: $800 annually

These categories encompass a variety of everyday expenditures.

14. Income and Salaries in San Francisco, California

Median household income figures have increased as follows:

• 2010: $70,000
• 2015: $85,000
• 2020: $112,000
• 2023: $130,000
• 2025: $135,000 (projected)

The growth mirrors economic expansion and thriving industries locally.

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15. Comparison with National Averages

Cost of living in San Francisco significantly exceeds the national average in most categories:

• Overall Cost: Around 80% higher than the national average
• Housing: Approximately 150% higher
• Utilities: About 25% higher
• Food: Roughly 30% higher
• Healthcare: Around 20% higher
• Transportation: Approximately 40% higher
• Goods and Services: About 35% more expensive

These differences highlight San Francisco’s status as one of the nation’s pricier cities.

Our Methodology for San Francisco, California Cost of Living Figures

Our cost of living estimates are compiled using data from reliable sources including Numbeo, BLS, MIT Living Wage Calculator, Zillow, Statista and government databases. Where exact numbers are unavailable, we apply reasonable estimations to provide accurate representations.

San Francisco, California Cost of Living: Conclusion

San Francisco’s 2025 cost of living reflects its reputation as a high-cost urban hub, with steep housing and daily expense figures.

While the city offers significant economic opportunities and vibrant cultural experiences, these benefits come with above-average living costs across most categories.

Understanding this comprehensive breakdown helps residents and newcomers prepare financially and make informed decisions about life in San Francisco.

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