San Francisco, CA
Population 836,321 · California
About San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a major city in California with a population of 836,321 residents. The median household income is $141,446 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in San Francisco is 39.7 years.
Housing in San Francisco has a median home value of $1,380,500 and median monthly rent of $2,419. Of the 411,542 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 139,610 owner-occupied and 223,040 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in San Francisco is 5.6% and the poverty rate is 10.6%. 60.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 31.2 minutes.
How San Francisco Ranks in California
Cost of Living in San Francisco, CA
Compared to national averages, San Francisco has a median household income of $141,446 (88% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,380,500, which is 464% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,419 is 108% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, San Francisco's income is 45% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 111% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in San Francisco, CA?
San Francisco offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $141,446, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 60.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 10.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,380,500. However, as a major city, San Francisco provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
San Francisco has a population of 836,321 with a median age of 39.7 years. Compare San Francisco with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near San Francisco
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose | 990,054 | $141,565 | $1,187,800 | Compare |
| Fresno | 543,615 | $66,804 | $348,500 | Compare |
| Sacramento | 524,802 | $83,753 | $484,600 | Compare |
| Long Beach | 458,491 | $83,969 | $762,200 | Compare |
| Oakland | 438,072 | $97,369 | $924,700 | Compare |
| Bakersfield | 408,366 | $77,397 | $347,300 | Compare |
| Anaheim | 344,553 | $90,583 | $771,700 | Compare |
| Stockton | 320,470 | $76,851 | $412,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare San Francisco With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about San Francisco
What is the population of San Francisco, CA?
The population of San Francisco, CA is 836,321 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in San Francisco?
The median household income in San Francisco, CA is $141,446 per year.
What is the median home value in San Francisco?
The median home value in San Francisco, CA is $1,380,500.
What is the average rent in San Francisco?
The median monthly rent in San Francisco, CA is $2,419.
What is the unemployment rate in San Francisco?
The unemployment rate in San Francisco, CA is 5.6%.