Moving West To San Francisco

Moving West To San Francisco

San Francisco is home to one of the “Seven Wonders of the Modern World”, the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s no wonder why so many people are attracted to this beautiful city in Northern California. It’s the fourth most populous city in California and known for its steep hills, cool summers and ever present fog. Yet, amidst the fog and hills, this cultural city has many treasures to be discovered.

Where To Live?

The cost to rent a home is San Francisco is the highest in the nation. The high demand for housing in the city has led to increased rents and soaring housing prices. Even major cities across the globe, such as London, Paris, Tokyo, Sydney, have rents at a lower cost than San Francisco. Some are almost 50% lower. One city, Dubai is more expensive, with rents at 9% above San Francisco.

San Francisco has many unique neighborhoods, each with its own style. When deciding which neighborhood to live in, spend time researching and exploring. If its family friendly you’re looking for, Noe Valley is popular if you have children. The famous Haight Ashbury is still a fashionable neighborhood with Victorian homes. This is the place to be if you want to be living among live music, burning incense and trendy boutiques. The Mission District is home to bars, clubs and upscale restaurants. Its eclectic culture and mix of old and new housing attracts young professionals.

Do You Need A Car In San Francisco?

Having a car in San Francisco is not a necessity. BART and MUNI are the two options for public transportation and allow you to get around the city without a car. If you plan on walking or cycling, take into consideration that much of your walk or ride might be uphill. In the beginning it may take you a little longer to make it up, allow yourself that extra time. Having a car can be beneficial if you work or take frequent trips outside of San Francisco. If you are considering Moving A Car, find out the best way to transport it when Moving to California.


The Weather


The weather in San Francisco is pretty predictable. Temperatures rarely go below 40 degrees or exceed 90 degrees. And then there’s the fog, which does exist! Everyone who knows and lives in San Francisco is accustomed to foggy days. It is said that September & October is the best time of year to visit San Francisco, as during the autumn the temperature is between 80 – 90 degrees, with the least amount of fog or rain. The nights can still be pretty chilly though, in the 50’s.


What Is There To Do In San Francisco?

With so much diversity, San Francisco caters to all that live in and are visiting this magnificent city. You can visit the Museum of Modern art, or admire the street art around the city. Eat in a famous restaurant, or hang out at a local bar. Spend time in Chinatown. San Francisco has four! The one on Grant Avenue is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia and the Chinese fortune cookie, was invented in San Francisco by a Japanese-American businessman, Makoto Hagiwara. There’s the Golden Gate Park, and the city is home to many festivals every year.


Moving Permits

If you will be moving to San Francisco, you will need a San Francisco Moving Permit to park a moving truck on the street. If you have hired a moving company to move your belongings, the moving company cannot get the parking permit for you. You will need to contact the San Francisco Municipal Transit Authority (SFMTA) to apply for the moving permit, at least 5 days prior to delivery.


Tips For Newcomers

Moving to a new city can often be daunting, not knowing the ins and outs. Here are a few tips to bear in mind as a newcomer to San Francisco.

• Remain open minded – San Francisco is a city of diversity.
• Network – There are many opportunities in San Francisco. Networking allows you to connect with like-minded individuals and meet people who you might work with in the future.
• Familiarize yourself with the BART and MUNI transportation system.
• The hills are steep! “The Wiggle” is the name given by cyclists, to the flattest route from Golden Gate Park to downtown.

Once your move is completed, make sure to set aside some time and take a walk over the Golden Gate Bridge, and experience one of the wonders of the world!