Top 5 Safest Neighborhoods to live in San Francisco with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Population: 38,853 (2020)
• Crime rate: 111.09 crimes per 1,000 people (Taraval District)

Inner Sunset has a diverse community because it consists of a multitude of people from different backgrounds and cultures, which makes it a welcoming place for everyone.

Locals like its proximity to Golden Gate Park, has abundant food choices, and reasonable distance to Ocean Beach which encourages an active lifestyle. The presence of recreational facilities like the Garden for the Environment further supports this. 

In Inner Sunset, locals frequently see families wandering down the street and children playing at treat stores after school. They mention that it is a kind of neighborhood one feels comfortable walking at night. As reported, it has a crime rate of 111.09 crimes per 1,000 people, making it our top pick for the safest neighborhoods to live in San Francisco among our lists. 

City data (2020) & SF Dashboard (2022)

• Population: 21,281 (2020)
• Crime rate: 129.57 crimes per 1,000 people (Sunset District)

Locals mention that Parkside is peaceful compared to downtown, attracting residents who seek a calm and welcoming atmosphere. They also added that it is close to Ocean Beach and within walking distance of several stores if locals want to shop, visit the playgrounds, and park.

Parkside has access to parks like Stern Grove, Carl Larsen Park, Ocean Park, and Pine Lake Park which offers ample outdoor activities. It offers a convenient location with easy access to public transportation, diverse food and shopping options along Taraval Street.

For safety, there are about 129.57 crimes for every 1,000 people, making it a smart choice for those people seeking a safer neighborhood.

City data (2020) & SF Dashboard (2022)

• Population: 29,087 (2020)
• Crime rate: 151.8 crimes per 1000 people

With a walk score of 89, the Outer Richmond neighborhood is highly walkable, making it convenient for errands and activities. Locals, hikers, and beach goers often visit the Sutro Baths, situated on the beachfront. These ruins were once part of a prominent saltwater swimming pool complex in the Outer Richmond District.

Outer Richmond proudly hosts two of San Francisco’s original movie theaters. The Balboa Theater, constructed in 1926 at Balboa and 38th Avenue, and the 4-Star Theater, built around 1913 on Clement and 23rd Avenue. 

In terms of safety, the Outer Richmond has a crime rate of 151.8 crimes per 1,000 people. While violent crime is uncommon here, some occasional incidents occur nearby, so it’s wise to have an equally alert companion when wandering around, especially at night. It’s worth noting that break-ins have been reported at spots like the Lands End Lookout parking lot and the Queen’s Windmill, so avoiding these areas is wise. 

City data (2020) & SF Dashboard (2022)

• Population: 37,621 (2020)
• Crime rate: 158.8 crimes per 1000 people

The Mission District in San Francisco, or The Mission, is named after San Francisco’s oldest building and is known today as a foodie destination. It has old-fashioned places to get tasty Mexican food and unique clubs where you can listen to live music. There are also fancy restaurants run by skilled chefs and cozy lounges where they make special cocktails.

Although there are only small parks in the Mission District itself, the well-known Dolores Park is just nearby. It’s a perfect place for families to gather and enjoy on a sunny day, plus it offers outstanding views of downtown San Francisco.

As for safety, the Mission records a crime rate of 158.8 crimes per 1000 people. Locals mention that the area is generally safe, but there are parts of Mission Street downtown that they strongly advise against, such as 6th Street and 8th Street. Having a roommate or someone with you in your apartment or condo can provide you with added comfort, especially when you need to go out at night.

City data (2020) & SF Dashboard (2022)

• Population: 23,979 (2020)
• Crime rate: 166.08 crimes per 1,000 people (Bayview District)

Bayview has a total of 166.08 crimes per 1,000 people. Locals praise Bayview for having the best weather in the city because it is sunny but not uncomfortably hot.

Locals enjoy access to numerous playgrounds and parks, such as Hilltop Park and Adam Rogers Park, where they can do activities that promote an outdoor lifestyle. If you want to be close to the downtown, waterfront districts, and pier of San Francisco, the Bayview District is convenient.

If you’re thinking about moving to Bayview, locals suggest avoiding streets like Quesada and 3rd Street. It’s a good idea to take some security precautions and avoid drawing attention to valuable items at all times. Additionally, car owners should be aware that some streets have cars parked on both sides overnight, making it difficult for other vehicles to pass through.

City data (2020) & SF Dashboard (2022)