24 Cities Near San Francisco, CA to Live in 2024

August 11, 2023
Looking for an apartment in Bay Area cities? Learn all there is to know about the cities near San Francisco and narrow your options down to your ideal location.

When most people think about San Francisco, they think of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the bordering tech hub of Silicon Valley, and rentals so expensive that the average person couldn’t afford them. However, what most people forget to consider is that many people who choose to move to the Bay Area actually reside in cities near San Francisco.

The great thing is that many of these Bay Area cities offer just as many sights, activities, and culinary delights as you’d expect to find in the Golden City. Come with us as we explore some of the best cities close to San Francisco!

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

1. Oakland

oakland cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 12.4 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 17 minutes via I-80 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 12 minutes via BART Red-S Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 1 hour 16 minutes via Harbor Bay (route includes ferry ride)
  • Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,720
  • Population: 430,553
  • Median household income: $85,628
  • Walk score: 100
  • Transit score: 88
  • Bike score: 89

Drive just a few miles over the Bay Bridge, and you'll find yourself in Oakland, one of the most vibrant cities in proximity to San Francisco. Oakland offers a diverse range of sights, sounds, and tastes wrapped up in a thriving artsy community.

With accessible public transportation through Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), it’s long been a sought-after destination for commuters. This is also because the city offers more affordable housing prices compared to its Golden Gate cousin, offering everything from co-op apartments to lofts. Whether you’re interested in Fruitvale or Temescal, so many Oakland neighborhoods are fantastic.

2. Pacifica

Pacifica cities near San Francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 14.2 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 17 minutes via CA-1 N. and I-280 N.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 52 minutes via bus No. 110 and BART Blue-N Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 1 hour 31 minutes via San Francisco Bicycle Route 45
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,084
  • Population: 36,517
  • Median household income: $138,548
  • Walk score: 45
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 26

Less than 15 miles south of San Francisco, Pacifica is the perfect destination for beach lovers. This quintessential, sleepy West Coast surf sits right on the shores of the Pacific Ocean.

Whether you want to enjoy your time at the beach, catch some waves, or go for a hike along the scenic coastline, Pacifica offers it all. It’s also worth noting that Pacifica is a haven for mountain bikers, as the hillsides boast numerous trails. When you’re done, grab a coffee at one of the mom-and-pop shops downtown or try the famous grilled crab sandwich at Nick’s Seafood Restaurant.

3. Alameda

Alameda cities near San Francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 14.3 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 18 minutes via I-80 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 28 minutes via bus No. 51A and BART Blue-S Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 1 hour 8 minutes via Harbor Bay (route includes ferry ride)
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,284
  • Population: 76,040
  • Median household income: $113,339
  • Walk score: 68
  • Transit score: 42
  • Bike score: 77

Alameda has everything, from top-notch dining options to endless entertainment opportunities. Downtown Alameda has historic charm, housing hotspots like High Scores Arcade and the landmark Alameda Theatre and Cineplex. If wineries, breweries, and cocktail bars are what you’re after, Monarch Street is the place to be.

Beyond its attractions, the neighborhood has plenty of natural open space and bird refugees, perfect for a peek at nature outside the hustle and bustle of the city.

While many people commute to work in San Francisco, Alameda hosts prominent companies such as The North Face and JanSport.

4. Walnut Creek

walnut creek cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 25.3 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 28 minutes via CA-24 W. and I-80 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 38 minutes via BART Yellow-S Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 3 hours 6 minutes via Harbor Bay (route includes ferry ride)
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,985
  • Population: 68,969
  • Median household income: $121,205
  • Walk score: 41
  • Transit score: 25
  • Bike score: 49

The charming suburban town of Walnut Creek offers clean-cut, aesthetically pleasing suburban apartments, as well as a plethora of upscale shopping options and restaurants. You’ll also find a more temperate climate here than in San Francisco.

Walnut Creek is a haven for families, with excellent schools, lush parks, and some of the most beloved weekend farmers markets the Bay Area has to offer. Check out the annual Art and Wine Festival, or shop ’til you drop in the downtown area.

5. San Leandro

San Leandro cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 22.5 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 26 minutes via I-580 W. and I-80 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 25 minutes via BART Blue-S Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 1 hour 13 minutes via Harbor Bay (route includes ferry ride)
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,200
  • Population: 86,762
  • Median household income: $89,663
  • Walk score: 65
  • Transit score: 46
  • Bike score: 63

San Leandro sits within the San Francisco Bay Area and is renowned for its lush green spaces and abundant cherry harvests. The city takes pride in its heritage and pays homage through its annual Cherry Festival, held in June.

Emphasizing its dedication to education and recreation, San Leandro boasts excellent libraries, 21 public parks, and tranquil tree-lined neighborhoods that add to the city's overall allure. Add a balmy climate and an array of vibrant neighborhoods, and it’s one of the best suburbs of San Francisco.

6. Dublin

Dublin cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 34.8 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 37 minutes via I-580 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 58 minutes via bus Nos. 703 and 130
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 2 hours and 31 minutes via Harbor Bay (route includes ferry ride)
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,837
  • Population: 72,060
  • Median household income: $171,168
  • Walk score: 36
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 56

Dublin is a popular Tri-Valley commuter town, easily reachable via BART and interstates I-580 and I-680. In fact, this vibrant community earned the moniker the Crossroads of the Bay Area due to its strategic location between the two major highways.

Iron Horse Regional Trail offers plentiful walking and biking opportunities, while Gallagher’s Dublin Pub is a local favorite for grabbing a pint after a long day at work. With 260 sunny days a year and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s no wonder Dublin was voted one of the best towns to live in California.

7. Hayward

hayward cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 27.2 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 31 minutes via I-580 W. and I-80 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 50 minutes via BART Green-S Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 1 hour and 47 minutes via Harbor Bay (route includes ferry ride)
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,999
  • Population: 156,754
  • Median household income: $98,837
  • Walk score: 57
  • Transit score: 42
  • Bike score: 53

Hayward isn’t the cheapest place to live in the Bay Area, though it is relatively affordable compared to San Francisco. It’s the sixth-largest city in the Bay Area and home to the popular California State University, East Bay.

Lovers of leisure can head to Hayward Area Recreation and Park District for golfing, picnicking, or enjoying live music performances during the summer. The outdoors is a big part of life in Hayward, from hiking in the hills of Garin Regional Park to fishing in Lake Chabot. Pair that with the Hayward Japanese Gardens, one of California's oldest Japanese gardens, and you’ll see why people come here for reprieve.

8. Pleasanton

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 40.2 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 43 minutes via I-580 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 58 minutes via bus Nos. 703 and 130
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 2 hours and 53 minutes via Harbor Bay (route includes ferry ride)
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,614
  • Population: 76,689
  • Median household income: $167,932
  • Walk score: 42
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 58

Pleasanton is one of the nicest cities in California, with a warm climate and suburban ambiance similar to Walnut Creek that’s perfect for young families.

Located in Alameda County, Pleasanton offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere with quick access to the highway. The community here is very tight-knit, with numerous annual events, a local fairground, and the 9,000-acre Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, ideal for cyclists, hikers, and equestrians.

Several companies have their headquarters here, too, including Ellie Mae, Workday, and Safeway.

9. San Ramon

san ramon cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 36.1 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 37 minutes via I-680 N. and CA-24 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 1 hour and 21 minutes via bus No. 97X and BART Blue-S Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 2 hours and 57 minutes via Harbor Bay (route includes ferry ride)
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,400
  • Population: 85,953
  • Median household income: $173,519
  • Walk score: 24
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 58

Just 30 minutes from San Francisco in Contra Costa County lies San Ramon, one of the nicest San Francisco suburbs. Take a leisurely walk through the city center, and you’ll find endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Nature enthusiasts love it here, too, with plenty of hiking and animal-watching opportunities at the 444-acre Bishop Ranch Regional Preserve. With picturesque views of Mount Diablo, plenty of excellent public schools, and temperate weather, it’s a win for renters.

10. Livermore

Livermore best cities near San Francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 44.6 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 45 minutes via I-580 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 1 hour and 29 minutes via bus No. 10R and BART Blue-S Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 3 hours and 18 minutes via Harbor Bay (route includes ferry ride)
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,300
  • Population: 84,701
  • Median household income: $139,904
  • Walk score: 41
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 66

Livermore lies in the easternmost region beyond the Oakland Hills. It’s home to more than 40 wineries, maintaining the agricultural spirit of old California.

Professionals here find jobs at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories, while families enjoy the high-ranking educational offerings. In terms of rentals, expect several single-family homes and townhouses with spacious yards, akin to many other Bay Area suburbs.

Downtown Livermore recently experienced a revival, complete with a new movie theater and a large performing arts center. And when the scorching summers become unbearable, families head to Lizzie Fountain Park for a refresh.

11. Petaluma

Petaluma cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 38.8 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 47 minutes via US-101 S.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 1 hour and 26 minutes via bus No. 101
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 4 hours and 3 minutes via Petaluma Boulevard S.
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,150
  • Population: 58,652
  • Median household income: $100,379
  • Walk score: 95
  • Transit score: 40
  • Bike score: 57

Petaluma is one of the many towns outside of San Francisco where wine tastings and weekend festivals are the primary forms of entertainment.

And while it’s a bit farther from San Francisco than some of the other cities on this list, it makes up for it with charm and tranquility. Take a leisurely stroll through Historic Downtown Petaluma to explore the many mom-and-pop shops, or lose yourself in the magic of the redwoods just outside the city.

12. Calistoga

Calistoga near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 74.6 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 1 hour and 22 minutes via CA-29 S. and I-80 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 2 hours and 52 minutes via bus Nos. 10 and 29 and BART Red-S Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 4 hours and 55 minutes via Vallejo (route includes ferry ride)
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,100
  • Population: 5,029
  • Median household income: $72,861
  • Walk score: N/A
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: N/A

Sat in the heart of Napa Valley, the quaint city of Calistoga is renowned for the awe-inspiring Castello di Amorosa winery, which was designed to replicate a 13th-century Tuscan castle.

Beyond the famed winery, the city is celebrated for its rejuvenating mud baths and hot springs, with experiences available at locations like the Indian Springs Hotel and the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs. Calistoga is one of the safest cities in the Bay Area, with a 46% lower violent crime rate than San Francisco, thanks in part to its sparse suburban layout.

13. Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 66.4 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 1 hour and 18 minutes via US-101 S.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 3 hours and 45 minutes via bus Nos. 95 and 101
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 7 hours and 3 minutes via Bodega Highway
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,475
  • Population: 1,139
  • Median household income: $67,433
  • Walk score: 45
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 44

While Bodega Bay might be nationally famous as the location where Alfred Hitchcock filmed his iconic movie "The Birds," it’s also one of the most charming small towns near San Francisco, offering a tranquil, scenic escape from the city. It’s a quintessential Northern California town.

Locals here love the outdoors, and on the weekends, you’ll find people going horseback riding, whale watching, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. Pair that with some of the freshest local seafood in the state, and you’ll feel like you’re living in a dream.

14. Mill Valley

mill valley ciites near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 14.2 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 25 minutes via US-101 S.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 40 minutes via bus No. 150
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 1 hour and 28 minutes via Mill Valley–Sausalito Path
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,095
  • Population: 14,006
  • Median household income: $179,529
  • Walk score: N/A
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: N/A

Mill Valley is an outdoor recreation spot for San Francisco residents, thanks to its scenic trails and natural wonders, such as the Muir Woods National Monument.

However, residents here enjoy the downtown area, with delightful eateries like the Mill Valley Lumber Yard and the Flour Craft Bakery. While it’s certainly not the cheapest place to live in the Bay Area, Mill Valley offers something for everyone. From top-rated public schools to gorgeous rental properties, it’s an idealist’s Northern California town.

15. Capitola

Capitola cities near San Francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 76.2 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 1 hour and 18 minutes via CA-17 N. and US-101 N.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 3 hours and 5 minutes via bus Nos. 66 and 17 and B7 Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 7 hours and 24 minutes via Soquel San Jose Road
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,250
  • Population: 9,659
  • Median household income: $83,726
  • Walk score: 92
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 72

Nestled in Santa Cruz County, Capitola is one of the most picturesque cities outside of San Francisco. This hidden gem offers a lot to love — from the charming Capitola Village, a quaint, colorful waterfront neighborhood, to Pleasure Point, where you can enjoy watching surfers catch some waves yourself. When you’re done in the water, Zelda's on the Beach and the Shadowbrook are two dining experiences you can’t miss.

While you can find residents here of all backgrounds, Capitola is also one of the best small towns near San Francisco in which to retire.

16. Sausalito

Sausalito near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 9.8 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 22 minutes via US-101 S.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 32 minutes via bus No. 101
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 1 hour and 4 minutes via San Francisco Bicycle Route 95
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,200
  • Population: 7,095
  • Median household income: $140,417
  • Walk score: 86
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 45

It’s easy to think you’ve just arrived on Italy's Amalfi Coast when you enter Sausalito, as a colorful cascade of homes adorns the hillside. However, you’ve just entered one of the most affluent cities north of San Francisco.

Beyond the picturesque waterfront living, you’ll find excellent dining options, private beaches, and the world's largest marine mammal hospital, the Marine Mammal Center, where you can meet the people who dedicate their lives to rescuing and caring for marine life.

17. Benicia

Benicia cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 36.8 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 40 minutes via I-80 W.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 1 hour and 19 minutes via bus Y and BART Yellow-S Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 1 hour and 49 minutes via Vallejo (route includes ferry ride)
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,895
  • Population: 26,567
  • Median household income: $118,433
  • Walk score: 34
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 23

Right on the water's edge, Benicia offers a delightful North Bay escape with charming historic buildings and museums. The town is full of young professionals who enjoy small-town charm and a high quality of life.

Some of the most iconic sites include Benicia Capitol State Historical Park, the state's only surviving pre-Sacramento capitol, and the Fischer-Hanlon House, a former gold rush-era hotel turned museum.

Beyond its historical allure, the surrounding city thrives with a vibrant art scene. And for nature enthusiasts, the waterfront provides ample opportunities for scenic picnics and paddleboarding.

18. Half Moon Bay

half moon bay cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 29.1 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 37 minutes via CA-1 N.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 1 hour and 11 minutes via bus No. 294 and L3 Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 3 hours and 17 minutes via San Francisco Bicycle Route 45
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,750
  • Population: 11,176
  • Median household income: $137,346
  • Walk score: 89
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 81

Though affordable housing is sparse, the charming coastal city of Half Moon Bay is still worth mentioning. Located approximately 30 miles south of San Francisco, it’s renowned for its famous big wave surf spot, Mavericks Beach.

With an isolated position on California Highway 1, you’ll find historic farms dating back to the 1800s and stretches of untouched coastline. Head to Main Street, however, and you’ll discover a delightful blend of shopping and dining options. Those looking to explore small-town charm outside the surrounding cities of San Francisco will love it here.

19. Guerneville

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 74.5 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 1 hour and 24 minutes via US-101 S.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 3 hours and 27 minutes via bus Nos. 20 and 101
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 7 hours and 8 minutes via Stony Point Road
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,475
  • Population: 4,879
  • Median household income: $76,484
  • Walk score: 58
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 29

Sonoma County’s Guerneville is rustic through and through. The Russian River intersects the city, offering fantastic kayaking and canoeing opportunities. Johnson's Beach is a beloved summer destination frequented by locals and tourists alike, though you can also enjoy the 805-acre Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve for hiking and ziplining.

Of course, because Guerneville is in Sonoma County, there are plenty of excellent wine-tasting opportunities all around. If you’re looking for a city near San Francisco with a more rural feel, this is it.

20. Palo Alto

palo alto best cities near san francisco

  • Distance from downtown San Francisco: 33.7 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 37 minutes via US-101 N.
  • Commute time to San Francisco via public transport: 47 minutes via B7 Line
  • Commute time to San Francisco via bike: 3 hours and 2 minutes via Middlefield Road
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,975
  • Population: 66,010
  • Median household income: $194,782
  • Walk score: 61
  • Transit score: 37
  • Bike score: 91

As the tech hub of the U.S., Palo Alto might just be one of the most famous cities next to San Francisco, providing a wealth of job opportunities for those who want to enter one of the world’s most lucrative markets. Of course, it’s also one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., so you’ll have to prepare your budget for it.

Despite the costs, the city offers a diverse array of neighborhoods, from upscale gated communities to traditional suburban living.

Cities Near San Francisco with Higher Commute Times

With 66% of workers still working remote, finding a great place to be comfortable near San Francisco could be the right move for you long-term.

That said, near is a relative term. For those who may make a rare trek to San Francisco, we’ve got a breakdown of cities with longer commute times to the city’s center.

Though these cities aren’t ideal for those who must drive to work in San Francisco daily, they may be a good fit for you if you are a remote worker or only have to go to work once or twice a week.

Here are some of the best cities near San Francisco with higher commute times.

1. Vacaville

  • Miles away from Downtown San Francisco: 54.4 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 1 hour and 8 minutes via the I-80 W
  • Commute time to San Francisco via Train/Bus: 2 hours and 14 minutes via the BLUE bus with a transfer to the Yellow-S
  • Commute time to San Francisco via Bike: 3 hours and 40 minutes via Vallejo - San Francisco Pier 41
  • One-Bedroom Average Rent: $1,677
  • Two-Bedroom Average Rent: $2,060
  • Population: 1,013,240
  • Median Household Income: $117,324
  • Walk Score: 36
  • Transit Score: 20
  • Bike Score: 46

Why move to Vacaville? You crave a small-town vibe and a location that makes commuting easy. At just over an hour’s commute to San Francisco, Vacaville is perfect for those that may have to make regular trips to San Francisco.

While there are some expensive neighborhoods in Vacaville, they offer safety and security that less expensive areas just don’t offer. So, you’ll have to make a decision before starting your apartment hunt.

2. Davis

  • Miles away from Downtown San Francisco: 73.3 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 1 hour and 25 minutes via 1-80 W
  • Commute time to San Francisco via Train/Bus: 2 hours and 19 minutes via the CC bus with a transfer to the Red-S
  • Commute time to San Francisco via Bike: 5 hours and 41 minutes via Vallejo - San Francisco Pier 41
  • Median Rent: $1,751
  • Population: 66,850
  • Median Household Income: $75,394
  • Walk Score: 50
  • Transit Score: 38
  • Bike Score: 90

Have a bike and a willingness to use it on the muggiest of summer days? If so, Davis, California is the best place for you. Crowned as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, Davis is easy to get around on two wheels.

Davis’s awesome Farmers Market, parades, and festivals make it a social haven for those with a variety of interests. However, the best part of living in Davis is how easy it is on your bank account with its notably affordable rent prices.

3. Santa Cruz

  • Miles away from Downtown San Francisco: 74 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 1 hour and 45 minutes via the US-101 N
  • Commute time to San Francisco via Train/Bus: 2 hours and 36 minutes via the 17 bus with transfers to the LTD A/LTD B and the Red-N
  • Commute time to San Francisco via Bike: 7 hours and 27 minutes via the CA-1 N
  • Median Rent: $1,979
  • Population: 62,956
  • Median Household Income: $86,618
  • Walk Score: 63
  • Transit Score: 35
  • Bike Score: 86

Santa Cruz is a veritable beach town located right on the edge of Monterey Bay. For those that love surfing, salted air, and lazy beach days, Santa Cruz is the perfect place to call home. It’s a far cry from the quirkiness of San Francisco.

You’ll find tons of apartments for rent in Santa Cruz across its many unique neighborhoods from Downtown Santa Cruz to the West Side. Just be prepared to encounter a younger crowd, as UCSC’s prominence in the city means tons of college kids milling about.

4. Sacramento

  • Miles away from Downtown San Francisco: 87.6 miles
  • Commute time to San Francisco via car: 1 hour and 42 minutes via the I-80 W
  • Commute time to San Francisco via Train/Bus: 2 hours and 11 minutes via the Gold Train with transfers including the FlixBus, and the Blue-S
  • Commute time to San Francisco via Bike: 7 hours and 2 minutes via Vallejo - San Francisco Pier 41
  • One-Bedroom Average Rent: $1,397
  • Two-Bedroom Average Rent: $1,832
  • Population: 524,943
  • Median Household Income: $65,847
  • Walk Score: 49
  • Transit Score: 34
  • Bike Score: 67

As the capital of California, Sacramento doesn’t get a lot of love with quirky cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles nearby. However, Sacramento deserves its own time in the limelight.

The city has a rich history with incredible architecture. Its collection of distinct neighborhoods and various entertainment options make it hard for new residents to choose where to put down roots. Price will play a big role in the decision, as Sacramento apartments can be costly.

Looking For an Apartment in San Francisco?

All of these cities near San Francisco provide a wealth of amenities similar to what you'd find in the city — without the overwhelming hustle and bustle.

While the challenge of finding the perfect place to live near San Francisco can seem challenging, we’re here to help. Make sure to take our quiz, and you’ll be well on your way to discovering your dream Bay Area home. With us, you’ll spend 5 minutes and save 50 hours searching.

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Davina Ward
DAVINA WARD
Davina G. Ward is an esteemed journalist and expert on the apartment rental market. Read More
Tristian Brown
SENIOR CONTENT ASSOCIATE
Tristian Brown is a Senior Content Marketing Associate at Apartment List, where he manages high-quality content that helps modern renters find the perfect home. He brings an immense wealth of knowledge to the team, having earned a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and European Management from the University of San Diego and EM Strasbourg Business School. Read More
Tyler Connaghan
CONTENT WRITER
For over a decade, Tyler Connaghan has excelled in content strategy, specializing in article writing and website content creation. Through his deep interest in knowledge and partnerships with notable real estate firms, he has refined his skill in producing content that highlights the rental sector's key aspects. Read More

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