Best Suburbs In San Francisco

San Francisco is a city known for its diverse neighborhoods and vibrant culture. However, the city can be quite expensive, leading many residents to look for suburban options outside of the city. This article will explore the best suburbs in San Francisco, highlighting the unique features and factors to consider when choosing a place to call home.

Choosing the right suburb is crucial for many reasons, including proximity to work, schools, and entertainment. In addition, each suburb has its character and community, making choosing a place that aligns with your values and lifestyle important. Whether you’re a family looking for excellent schools or a young professional seeking vibrant nightlife, a suburb in San Francisco can meet your needs.

In this article, we will provide an overview of the top suburbs in San Francisco and highlight the factors that make them great places to live. We will also compare the best san francisco suburbs based on key factors, such as safety, schools, and cost of living, to help you make an informed decision about where to call home.

Factors to consider when choosing a suburb in San Francisco

1. proximity to the city: One of the main reasons people choose to live in a suburb is to have more space and a quieter lifestyle while still being close enough to the city to enjoy its amenities. When choosing a suburb in San Francisco, it’s important to consider its proximity to the city and public transportation options.

2. Safety and crime rates: Safety is a top priority for many residents, so it’s important to research the crime rates of each suburb. Look for neighborhoods with low crime rates and a strong police presence.

3. Schools and education: Families with children will want to consider the quality of the schools in each suburb. Look for neighborhoods with highly-rated schools and various educational options, such as public, private, and charter schools.

4. cost of living: The cost of living can vary greatly from suburb to suburb, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing a place to live. Look for affordable neighborhoods that offer a good value for the price.

5. Access to amenities and entertainment: Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or a sports enthusiast, it’s important to consider the amenities and entertainment options available in each suburb. Look for san francisco neighborhoods with various restaurants, parks, and cultural attractions to keep you busy and engaged.

Top suburbs of San Francisco

1. Marin County

Marin County is a suburb across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco. The area is known for its natural beauty, with miles of hiking and biking trails, stunning beaches, and breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay. Marin County has a small-town feel and a strong sense of community, making it a popular choice for families and nature enthusiasts.

Housing prices and cost of living:

Marin County is one of the most expensive areas in the United States, with a median home value of around $1.3 million. Rental prices are also high, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $2,500 per month and a two-bedroom apartment averaging around $3,000 per month. The cost of living in Marin County is higher than the national average due to the area’s high-end amenities and natural beauty.

Perfect for:

Marin County is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts looking for a tranquil, scenic environment with excellent schools, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community. The area is popular among those who value an active, healthy lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports.

Things to do:

Marin County offers a wealth of outdoor recreational activities, cultural events, and dining options for residents and visitors, including:

Hiking and biking on the miles of trails in Mount Tamalpais State Park.
Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Stinson Beach and Muir Beach.
Exploring the local farmer’s markets, wineries, and restaurants showcasing the area’s fresh, organic cuisine.
Attending cultural events at the Marin Center, which hosts concerts, performances, and art exhibitions.

Overall, Marin County offers a unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural amenities, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a high-quality lifestyle outside San Francisco. The area’s strong sense of community, excellent schools, and proximity to the city make it a desirable location for families and nature enthusiasts.

2. Burlingame

Burlingame is a charming suburb in San Mateo County, just south of San Francisco. The area is known for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and high-end shopping and dining options. Burlingame is a popular choice for those who work in San Francisco but prefer a quieter, more suburban lifestyle.

Housing prices and cost of living:

The median home value in Burlingame is around $2.5 million, making it one of the most expensive suburbs in the San Francisco Bay Area. Rental prices in the area are also high, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $2,700 monthly and a two-bedroom apartment averaging around $3,400 monthly. The cost of living in Burlingame is higher than the national average due to the area’s high-end amenities and luxury shopping options.

Perfect for:

Burlingame is perfect for those who value a quiet, upscale lifestyle with easy access to San Francisco’s employment centers. The area is popular among affluent professionals and families who appreciate the area’s high-end shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Burlingame’s excellent schools and parks make it an attractive choice for families with young children.

Things to do:

Burlingame offers many shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, including:

Shopping and dining in the Burlingame Avenue shopping district, which features high-end stores and restaurants.
Visiting the historic Burlingame train station dates back to the early 1900s.
Exploring the area’s beautiful parks and green spaces, including Washington Park and Mills Canyon Park.
Attending the annual Burlingame Artzfest, which features live music, food, and art vendors.

Burlingame offers a quiet, upscale living environment with easy access to San Francisco’s major employment centers. The area’s high-end shopping, dining, and cultural attractions make it an attractive choice for affluent professionals and families.

3. Pacifica

Located just south of San Francisco, Pacifica is a coastal town known for its stunning beaches, hiking trails, and natural beauty. The area is popular with outdoor enthusiasts and those who value a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle. Pacifica has a strong sense of community and a small-town feel while within easy reach of San Francisco’s cultural attractions and job opportunities.

The Santa Cruz Mountains are a stunning range of mountains in California, known for their towering redwood trees, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Housing prices and cost of living:

The median home value in Pacifica is around $1.2 million, with some of the most expensive homes exceeding $2 million. Rental prices in the area are also high, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $2,800 per month and a two-bedroom apartment averaging around $3,500 monthly. The cost of living in Pacifica is higher than the national average due to the area’s desirable coastal location and proximity to San Francisco.

Perfect for:

Pacifica is perfect for those who value a slower-paced lifestyle and easy access to outdoor recreation. The area is popular among retirees, families, and young professionals who prioritize work-life balance and natural beauty. Pacifica’s strong sense of community and small-town feel make it an attractive choice for those who value a tight-knit community.

Things to do:

Pacifica offers a wide variety of outdoor activities and attractions, including:

Visiting Pacifica State Beach, one of the most popular surfing spots in the Bay Area.
Hiking the famous Devil’s Slide Trail, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Exploring the Mori Point hiking trails offers panoramic views of the coast and mountains.
Attending local events like the Pacific Coast Fog Fest and Pacifica Farmers’ Market.

Pacifica offers a peaceful, natural living environment within easy reach of San Francisco’s cultural attractions and job opportunities. The area’s stunning beaches, and hiking trails make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, while its strong sense of community and small-town feel make it an attractive choice for those who value a tight-knit community.

4. San Carlos

San Carlos is a small suburban city in San Mateo County, approximately halfway between San Francisco and San Jose. The city is known for its charming downtown area, family-friendly neighborhoods, and top-rated schools. San Carlos offers a small-town feel while still being within easy reach of major employment centers and entertainment options in the Bay Area.

Housing prices and cost of living:

The median home value in San Carlos is around $2 million, with some of the most expensive homes exceeding $5 million. Rental prices in the area are also high, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $2,500 per month and a two-bedroom apartment averaging around $3,000 per month. The cost of living in San Carlos is higher than the national average due to the area’s high-end amenities and proximity to Silicon Valley.

Perfect for:

San Carlos is perfect for families and professionals looking for a quiet, safe, and family-friendly community with excellent schools and easy access to major employment centers. The area is popular among those who work in Silicon Valley or San Francisco and want to live in a suburban environment with a small-town feel.

Things to do:

San Carlos offers a variety of outdoor activities, dining options, and cultural events, including:

Hiking and biking in nearby hills and parks, such as the Pulgas Ridge Preserve, Edgewood Park, and Natural Preserve.
Exploring the charming downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and local businesses.
Attending community events like the Hometown Days festival and the Art and Wine Faire.
The area’s proximity to San Francisco and Silicon Valley offers a wide range of entertainment and employment options.

Overall, San Carlos offers a safe, family-friendly, and affluent living environment in the Bay Area, with a small-town feel and easy access to major employment centers and entertainment options. The area’s top-rated schools and high-end amenities make it an attractive choice for families and professionals looking for a suburban lifestyle.

5. Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek is a suburb located in the East Bay region of San Francisco, approximately 16 miles east of Oakland. The area has scenic views, upscale shopping and dining options, and excellent schools. Walnut Creek has a mix of urban and suburban feel and is considered one of the best places to live in the Bay Area.

Housing prices and cost of living:

The median home value in Walnut Creek is around $1.1 million, with some of the most expensive homes exceeding $2 million. Rental prices in the area are also high, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $2,000 per month and a two-bedroom apartment averaging around $2,500 per month. The cost of living in Walnut Creek is higher than the national average due to the area’s upscale amenities and high-end shopping options.

Perfect for:

Walnut Creek is perfect for individuals and families looking for a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities. The area is popular among those who work in San Francisco or Oakland, as it provides a more affordable and peaceful living environment. Walnut Creek is also popular among retirees due to its mild climate and excellent healthcare options.

Things to do:

Walnut Creek offers many shopping, dining, and entertainment options for residents and visitors, including:

Exploring the scenic trails and parks, including Mount Diablo State Park, Heather Farm Park, and Shell Ridge Open Space.
Shopping and dining at the upscale Broadway Plaza outdoor mall, which features over 80 stores and restaurants.
Visiting the Lesher Center for the Arts, which features a theater, art gallery, and educational programs.
Participating in local events and festivals, including the Walnut Creek Art & Wine Festival and the Walnut Creek Downtown Wine Walk.

Overall, Walnut Creek offers a peaceful, suburban living environment with easy access to urban amenities and entertainment options. The area’s excellent schools, healthcare options, and scenic views make it attractive for individuals and families.

6. Mill Valley

Mill Valley is a picturesque suburb located in Marin County, just a few miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge. The town is known for its natural beauty, excellent schools, and charming downtown san mateo area. Mill Valley has a small-town feel, but it offers easy access to the city, making it an ideal location for those who want to enjoy urban and suburban lifestyles.

Housing prices and cost of living:

The median home value in Mill Valley is around $1.7 million, with some of the most expensive homes exceeding $10 million. Rental prices in the area are also high, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $2,700 monthly and a two-bedroom apartment averaging around $3,800 monthly. The cost of living in Mill Valley is higher than the national average due to the area’s high-end amenities and luxury housing options.

Perfect for:

Mill Valley is perfect for those looking for a picturesque, upscale community with a small-town feel. The area is popular among families, retirees, and professionals who work in nearby San Francisco or Silicon Valley. Mill Valley is also ideal for nature lovers who enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities, as it offers easy access to Mount Tamalpais and other natural attractions.

Things to do:

Mill Valley offers many outdoor activities and cultural attractions for residents and visitors, including:

Hiking and biking in Mount Tamalpais State Park, which features over 60 miles of trails and stunning views of the Bay Area.
Enjoying live music and theater performances at the historic Throckmorton Theatre.
Exploring the charming downtown san francisco area, which features many boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Visiting the Mill Valley Film Festival is held annually and showcases independent and international films.

Overall, Mill Valley offers a luxurious and scenic living environment in Marin County, strongly emphasizing outdoor activities, culture, and community. The area’s excellent schools and proximity to major employment centers make it an attractive choice for families and professionals.

7. Belmont

Belmont is a small suburban city on the San Francisco Peninsula, about halfway between San Francisco and San Jose. The city is known for its excellent schools, peaceful residential neighborhoods, and convenient location close to major employment centers.

Housing prices and cost of living:

The median home value in Belmont is around $1.5 million, with some of the most expensive homes exceeding $3 million. Rental prices in the area are also high, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $2,500 per month and a two-bedroom apartment averaging around $3,300 per month. The cost of living in Belmont is higher than the national average due to the area’s high-end amenities and proximity to major employment centers.

Perfect for:

Belmont is perfect for families and professionals looking for a quiet and safe community with excellent schools and a convenient location. The area is popular among those who work in Silicon Valley or San Francisco, as it offers a peaceful residential lifestyle while still being close to major employment centers.

Things to do:

Belmont offers many outdoor recreational activities for residents and visitors, including:

Exploring the trails and natural beauty of the nearby Belmont Canyon Open Space Reserve.
Playing golf at the private Peninsula Country Club.
Visiting the Belmont Farmers’ Market, which features fresh local produce and artisanal goods.
Attending the annual Belmont Greek Festival celebrates the city’s Greek heritage.

Belmont offers a peaceful and convenient suburban lifestyle in the heart of the San Francisco Peninsula. The city’s excellent schools and natural beauty make it an attractive choice for families, while its proximity to major employment centers makes it an ideal location for professionals.

Comparison of the suburbs based on factors

When comparing the top suburbs in San Francisco, there are several factors to consider, including proximity to the city, safety and crime rates, schools and education, cost of living, and access to amenities and entertainment. Here’s a comparison of the San Francisco suburbs based on these factors:

Proximity to the city:

Burlingame and Belmont are located closer to San Francisco and have easy access to public transportation.
Pacifica and Mill Valley are located further from the city but offer stunning natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
2. Safety and crime rates:

Burlingame and San Carlos have some of the lowest crime rates in the area, making them very safe for families.
Pacifica has a slightly higher crime rate, particularly in property crimes such as burglary and theft.
3. Schools and education:

San Carlos and Walnut Creek have excellent schools with high ratings.
Burlingame and Belmont also have good schools but may be more expensive.
4. Cost of living:

Mill Valley is the most expensive suburb, with high housing prices and cost of living.
Pacifica and Belmont have more affordable housing options but still have a higher living cost than other areas.
5. Access to amenities and entertainment:

Walnut Creek and Burlingame offer a variety of high-end shopping and dining options.
Mill Valley and Pacifica offer access to outdoor hiking and beach activities.

Overall, each suburb has its unique features and advantages. Prospective residents should consider their priorities and needs when choosing the right suburb in San Francisco.

Thanks For Reading!

As we conclude, it is evident that San Francisco’s suburbs offer diverse living environments for prospective residents. Each suburb has unique features, and it’s crucial to consider factors such as proximity to the city, safety, schools, cost of living, and access to amenities when deciding.

Among the top suburbs in San Francisco include Marin County, Burlingame, Pacifica, San Carlos, Walnut Creek, Mill Valley, and Belmont. These best suburbs of San Francisco offer a range of lifestyle options for residents, from luxury living to beachside living to a more relaxed and family-friendly environment.

In conclusion, we recommend that prospective residents do thorough research to determine the best san francisco suburb that aligns with their lifestyle and preferences. San Francisco’s suburbs offer a high quality of life and access to major employment centers and cultural attractions. It’s up to you to find the right fit for you and your family.