Move to San Francisco
United States · Expat Guide for Tech Workers
Rent (1BR)
$3,200
Rent (2BR)
$4,500
Transport
$98/mo
Expat Community
5/5
🌟 Why San Francisco?
- ✓ Global epicenter of tech innovation and venture capital
- ✓ Walkable city with iconic landmarks (Golden Gate, cable cars)
- ✓ Proximity to Silicon Valley and world-class universities
- ✓ Progressive culture with strong food and coffee scenes
🏠 Best Neighborhoods
SoMa (South of Market)
Tech hub, modern condos, close to offices
$3,400/mo
Mission District
Vibrant, diverse, excellent taquerias
$3,000/mo
Hayes Valley
Trendy, walkable, boutique shops
$3,500/mo
Sunset District
Quiet, residential, near Ocean Beach
$2,400/mo
✈ Airport
SFO (San Francisco International), OAK (Oakland)
☔ Weather
Mild year-round (10-20C). Famous fog in summer. Microclimates across the city.
🎓 Schools
Several options available
💻 Coworking
Abundant (WeWork, Galvanize, Bespoke)
✅ First Week Checklist
- Get a Clipper Card for BART and Muni transit
- Open a bank account (Silicon Valley Bank alternatives: Mercury, First Republic)
- Explore neighborhoods before signing a lease
- Join local tech meetups and networking events
- Download Uber/Lyft - essential for hilly terrain
🏗 Top Industries
Tech
Biotech
Finance
Clean Energy
💰 San Francisco Salary Insights
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Top tech salaries in San Francisco