What is an approximate amount for monthly expenses in San Francisco?

Question

Hi Everyone!
I'm thinking about moving to San Francisco, but I'm wondering what kind of monthly expenses I would run into there (it'll also help me figure out how much I need to make!)
I'm coming from country life, so I know there's probably alot of stuff I haven't even thought of when trying to estimate myself. Can someone give me a list of different expenses with approximate costs?

Answer 1

The average one bedroom IN San Francisco proper is $1,600 per month.... Gas is close to $3 a gallon. Food and things like that are probably similar to what you're paying now. Parking/insurance etc. will probably be more. If you don't mind living in suburbs (across the bay for example) the prices are a little better, but probably a lot more than in any rural area in the US.

Answer 2

I presume that you're looking to move to San Francisco proper... it is pricey there, but there are deals on apts or roommate situations (though, be thorough when asking questions if it's a roommate situation).

if you got a run of the mill apt in an ok area, not nice, but not nasty, that, food, utilities and such would probably run you about 1700-2000/month... it could be higher, it could be a little lower.

if you opt for the east bay, it's more concrete jungle like and does have decent mass transit, your monthly cost could be substantially lower.

I live in Marin, just north of the Golden Gate, with a roommate in a house (which is a good deal), its costing me about 1300/month.

I'm happy to talk to you in more detail if you like... e-mail me through here... I was born in the area, and grew up here, so I have a good concept of the area.

rent, figure 1500 (this would be a small one bedroom or studio that is acceptable), could be more or less depending.
cable, figure between 65-150 (can include internet)
garbage/water, maybe 30/month
public transit, I think a pass is $50/month
bridge tolls are $4 and $5 for the golden gate
gas runs about $2.70/gallon, little cheaper at the moment
food prices vary depending on taste and preference

if you have specific questions, again, feel free to contact me thru here