Where are the Hidden Gems for Cheap Houses for Rent in San Francisco Located?

San Francisco's reputation for having some of the highest rent prices in the country is well-deserved, but that doesn't mean you should give up on finding a great deal! While neighborhoods like the Marina and Pacific Heights are out of reach for most people, the city still has some hidden gem neighborhoods where you can find cheap houses for rent in San Francisco. The trick is to know where to look and be willing to trade in a short downtown commute for more space and a lower price tag.

Whether it's a compact studio for rent San Francisco or even a spacious 3 bedroom house for rent San Francisco, your best bet in finding value-for-money deals would be to forget the central districts and head straight for the city's outer rings and southern neighbourhoods. Let Raj Properties guide you to the areas where value still exists!

The Outer Sunset and Richmond: West Coast Cool

The vast western side of San Francisco that borders the Pacific Ocean is often overlooked by renters obsessed with being near downtown. In fact, it is a goldmine in terms of space and relative affordability.

1. The Outer Sunset

This neighborhood is right next door to Ocean Beach and Golden Gate Park. It's noted for foggy mornings and rows of very distinctive, charming houses.

Why it's a hidden gem: The somewhat longer public transportation commute-including Muni Metro-means less demand than in the East Bay. You are far more likely to find a 3 bedroom house for rent San Francisco, complete with a backyard and garage, often for the same price you'd spend on a cramped two-bedroom downtown.

2. The Outer Richmond

Situated north of the Sunset, the Richmond offers a similar housing stock: mostly large, quiet single-family homes.

The Vibe: It boasts a great mix of affordable, authentic ethnic restaurants and is right next to Land's End, offering some of the best hiking trails in the city. The generally quieter, family-friendly atmosphere often means lower rent than similar homes elsewhere.

The Southern Promise: Excelsior and Visitacion Valley

To get the cheap houses for rent in San Francisco, head south of the main hills and valleys. 

These areas give you the most value for money.

1. Excelsior

With its warm climate and diverse community, it is often referred to as "The Sunny Side of the City," the Excelsior district.

The Value: Rent is way more reasonable here, since it's primarily a residential neighborhood and not near the tech campuses or tourist zones. You're close to major highways, I-280, and you still have BART options for easy public transportation and commuting. This area is an excellent place to find a multi-bedroom house or an affordable studio for rent in San Francisco.

2. Visitacion Valley

Located on the southern edge of the city, this neighborhood has some of the lowest median rents in all of San Francisco.

The Payoff: This neighborhood does require a longer commute to the Financial District; however, the sacrifice is well rewarded in lower rent and better access to larger housing units. If saving money is your number one priority, start your search here. 

Conclusion: 

To find inexpensive houses for rent in San Francisco, you have to look beyond the better-known central districts. The real value and best chance of finding a spacious 3 bedroom house for rent San Francisco lies in the Outer Sunset, Outer Richmond, and southern neighborhoods such as Excelsior. These areas reward those willing to commute a little further with more space, lower prices, and a fantastic neighborhood feel.