8 Safest Neighborhoods in San Francisco for Renters in 2025

The safest neighborhoods in San Francisco for renters in 2025 include Bernal Heights, Golden Gate Heights, and Inner Sunset. Between January 2024 to January 2025, violent crime in San Francisco fell by 14%—marking the city’s lowest crime rate in over two decades.

Whether you're new to the Bay Area or relocating within the city, it helps to know where safety, affordability, and livability intersect. We rounded up the top eight neighborhoods where you don’t have to sacrifice peace of mind to get a place you love.

How We Ranked Neighborhood Safety

We focused on crime data from neighborhoods where Apartment List renters actively search, so our rankings reflect what really matters to renters.

Data Sources and Time Frame

We pulled data from multiple authoritative sources to give you the most up-to-date picture on crime and safety in San Francisco:

• SFPD Crime Dashboard incidents from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025
• Neighborhood-specific crime grades from Area Vibes
• Apartment List rent data

Crime Metrics Weighted for Renters

We developed a weighted score system tailored to renter concerns:

• 40% property crime
• 35% violent crime
• 15% theft from vehicles
• 10% quality-of-life complaints

This mix prioritizes the safety risks renters face most—from package theft to break-ins near apartment buildings.

Why Other “Safe” Neighborhoods Didn’t Make the List

A few areas with strong crime stats, like Glen Park, didn’t qualify due to limited rental inventory. Others, like Hayes Valley and Rincon Hill, were excluded due to high average rents ($4,060 and $4,414 for a one-bedroom, respectively).

Crime Snapshot of San Francisco in 2025

San Francisco’s 2025 crime trends show a real turnaround, with violent and property crimes down across every major district.

Citywide Crime Trends at a Glance

Thanks to new public safety efforts by the SFPD, crime rates across San Francisco are dropping. Here’s a quick look:

These stats come from the San Francisco Police Department’s Crime CompStat Reports.

According to a San Francisco Chronicle analysis, property crime in San Francisco dropped 45% in Q1 of 2025, compared to a 21% drop in Seattle and 32% in Denver. Violent crime in San Francisco dropped 13%, 16% in Seattle, and only 4% in Denver.

Interactive Map and Dashboard Links

• Use the SFPD Crime Dashboard for real-time, neighborhood-specific and historical trends.
• Explore the Apartment List Renter Satisfaction Survey for insights on safety experiences reported by renters.

The 8 Safest San Francisco Neighborhoods for Renters

If safety is a deal-breaker in your San Francisco apartment search, here are the safest neighborhoods to consider in 2025.

Inner Sunset

• Crime rate: 182 per 10,000 residents
• Violent crime: 14 per 10,000 residents
• Property crime: 168 per 10,000 residents
• Area Vibes crime grade: Above average
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,830

Inner Sunset tops the list with the lowest crime rate in the city. Strong community programs like CPAB and regular neighborhood watch meetings keep the area actively engaged and safe.

Golden Gate Heights

• Crime rate: ~215 per 10,000 residents
• Violent crime: ~46.1 per 10,000 residents
• Property crime: 204.9 per 10,000 residents
• Area Vibes crime grade: Above average
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,650

Golden Gate Heights offers elevated safety in both literal and figurative senses, with its hillside location providing natural security advantages. While rentals are limited, existing apartment units often offer added safety features and quick access to green space.

Bernal Heights

• Crime rate: 262.4 per 10,000 residents
• Violent crime: 38.2 per 100,000 residents
• Property crime: 224.2 per 10,000 residents
• Area Vibes crime grade: Below average
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,100

Bernal Heights’ grid layout and active community involvement make it one of the safest spots for apartment renters. The area has one of the city’s lowest burglary rates, and its dog-friendly parks and walkable streets create natural, consistent foot traffic that helps deter crime.

Outer Richmond

• Crime rate: 478.6 per 10,000 residents
• Violent crime: 41.6 per 10,000 residents
• Property crime: 437 per 10,000 residents
• Area Vibes crime grade: Above average
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,895

Despite higher overall crime numbers, Outer Richmond continues to improve safety through measures like street cameras and porch locker pilots. The neighborhood’s walkability, cultural offerings, and rents below upscale counterparts make it an attractive area for renters.

Pacific Heights

• Crime rate: 320.4 per 10,000 residents
• Violent crime: 20.6 per 10,000 residents
• Property crime: 299.8 per 10,000 residents
• Area Vibes crime grade: Average
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,550

Known for its Victorian architecture and upscale vibe, Pacific Heights maintains lower-than-average crime for an east-side district. There’s a high volume of retail activity here, which means steady foot traffic—and a built-in sense of safety.

Noe Valley

• Crime rate: 336.1 per 10,000 residents
• Violent crime: 19.5 per 10,000 residents
• Property crime: 316.6 per 10,000 residents
• Area Vibes crime grade: Above average
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,695

Low violent crime and strong commuter access make Noe Valley a standout. The area’s vibrant street life and regular farmers’ markets create a steady community presence. New efforts to curb car break-ins include stepped-up patrols and renter-led education on vehicle safety.

Outer Sunset

• Crime rate: 394.1 per 10,000 residents
• Violent crime: 55.7 per 10,000 residents
• Property crime: 338.4 per 10,000 residents
• Area Vibes crime grade: Above average
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,695

Outer Sunset pairs the most affordable rents on our list with practical safety wins like expanded porch locker programs. Far from downtown nightlife, the area benefits from quieter evenings and well-patrolled access to Golden Gate Park and Ocean Beach.

Alamo Square

• Crime rate: 496.2 per 10,000 residents
• Violent crime: 19.9 per 10,000 residents
• Property crime: 437 per 10,000 residents
• Area Vibes crime grade: Below average
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,695

Alamo Square rounds out our list with exceptionally low violent crime and enhanced patrols around its iconic park. This central neighborhood offers a wide variety of apartments, consistent police visibility, and strong community engagement.

Comparing Rents, Commute, and Lifestyle

Safety stats are a great starting point, but to really find your fit, you’ll want to factor in rent prices, commute time, and what it actually feels like to live there.

Average Rents in San Francisco’s Safest Neighborhoods

Before you fall in love with a neighborhood, it helps to know if it fits your budget. Here’s how average rents stack up across our top picks for safety:

Commute Times to Downtown and Tech Hubs

Transit accessibility varies considerably among our safest neighborhoods, with Inner Sunset and Outer Sunset offering excellent Muni light-rail connections via the N-Judah line, providing 20-25 minute commutes to downtown SOMA during peak hours. Pacific Heights benefits from multiple bus lines including the 1-California and 24-Divisadero, with 15-20 minute commutes to the Financial District.

Neighborhood Vibe and Amenities

Each neighborhood has its own renter-friendly vibe—from Inner Sunset’s emerging nightlife to Outer Richmond’s dim sum scene. Parks, walkability, and a sense of community all contribute to livability.

Inner Sunset

• Overall vibe: Family-friendly atmosphere with quiet residential feel and emerging nightlife scene
• Walk score: 96
• Nearby attractions: Golden Gate Park, Stern Grove, diverse dining along Irving Street

Outer Sunset

• Overall vibe: Quiet neighborhood living with beach proximity and peaceful residential atmosphere
• Walk score: 83
• Nearby attractions: Ocean Beach, Sunset Dunes, Outerlands restaurant and emerging food scene

Pacific Heights

• Overall vibe: Upscale living with sophisticated dining, wine bars, and high-end shopping
• Walk score: 97
• Nearby attractions: Alta Plaza Park, Lafayette Park with city views, Fillmore Street shopping

Noe Valley

• Overall vibe: Family-friendly community with strong neighborhood bonds and town square feel
• Walk score: 94
• Nearby attractions: Saturday farmers market, 24th Street shopping corridor with boutiques and cafes

Bernal Heights

• Overall vibe: Village atmosphere with strong community bonds and hillside living
• Walk score: 92
• Nearby attractions: Bernal Heights Park with panoramic city views, Cortland Avenue dining and local bars

Alamo Square

• Overall vibe: Active community with neighborhood events and park activities
• Walk score: 97
• Nearby attractions: Iconic Painted Ladies, Alamo Square Park with downtown skyline views, Divisadero corridor dining

Outer Richmond

• Overall vibe: Asian cultural hub living with excellent dim sum and authentic markets
• Walk score: 89
• Nearby attractions: Golden Gate Park, Presidio access, Clement Street and Geary Boulevard restaurant strips

Golden Gate Heights

• Overall vibe: Quiet residential living for families seeking peaceful community atmosphere
• Walk score: 77
• Nearby attractions: Golden Gate Heights Park with renovated playground, Forest Hill shopping area

Safety Tips for Renting in San Francisco

Choosing a safe neighborhood is just the first step. Renters can take additional measures to enhance their personal safety and protect their belongings.

Choose Secure Buildings and Leases

Look for buildings with controlled access—key fobs, codes, or a doorman. Prioritize well-lit hallways, security cameras in common areas, and secure package rooms. Review your lease to understand who’s responsible for what when it comes to safety. Many newer buildings come equipped with smart locks, gated parking, and 24/7 emergency contacts.

Protect Your Car and Bike

If you drive, consider indoor parking when it’s available. Use steering wheel locks and avoid leaving anything visible in your car. Cyclists should look for indoor bike storage and use high-quality locks. Reporting suspicious activity through the SFPD non-emergency line or app can help prevent future issues.

Use Neighborhood Apps and Community Programs

Apps like Citizen and Nextdoor offer real-time neighborhood alerts. You can also get involved in your area’s Community Police Advisory Board (CPAB) or neighborhood watch. These groups help create strong networks of safety-conscious renters—and that kind of community presence is a proven crime deterrent.

Frequently Asked Questions about San Francisco’s Safest Neighborhoods

Which Safe Neighborhoods Still Offer Below-Median Rents?

Outer Sunset, Alamo Square, and Outer Richmond typically list one-bedroom apartments below San Francisco's median rent of $2,991.

How Can I Track Crime in Real Time after I Move?

Use SFPD's online Crime Dashboard for official incident data or apps like Citizen for geo-fenced alerts within a quarter-mile of your address. Both platforms provide neighborhood-specific notifications and weekly trend reports, helping residents stay informed about local safety conditions and emerging patterns.

Are Short-Term Rentals Riskier than Year-Long Leases?

Buildings with more than 50% short-term rental turnover logged 18% more package thefts and 11% higher noise complaints in 2024. Traditional 12-month leases typically involve more rigorous tenant screening and create more stable community relationships, which can reduce exposure to petty crime and enhance overall building security through consistent resident presence and neighbor familiarity.