Is San Francisco Safe To Visit?  A Local’s Guide to The Neighborhoods  

My family moved to San Francisco when I was 11 years old. I went to public schools through Washington High School in Outer Richmond. I then went on to college at San Francisco State University. Later, I raised my daughter in the City, and she attended the same schools.

You may ask why I’m starting an article titled “Is San Francisco Safe?” by giving you my quick bio? Well, this bio is my bona fides. Many articles about San Francisco are written by folks who lived here briefly or not at all. I’ve spent more than 30 years exploring this beautiful City.

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San Francisco has been at the forefront of debates around crime, homelessness, policing, and drug use in the past several years. However, national average crime statistics show that the violent crime rate is lower in SF than in other cities in the United States, such as Chicago, New Orleans, New York City, Las Vegas, and Washington, DC.

There is a kernel of truth in the stories about San Francisco. But most of it is hyper-sensationalized news story click-bait. Please don’t jump aboard the media bandwagon that insists on making the City out to be a crime-infested wasteland.

Is San Francisco Safe To Visit? Yes, it is as safe as any large international city. Ready to see for yourself? Let’s take a walk around this popular tourist destination!

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Is San Francisco Safe To Visit? Exploring The Safest Neighborhoods

San Francisco is a peninsula, meaning it is surrounded by water on three sides. This geographic setting limits the size of the City. As you plan a visit, you may hear the City is 7×7, meaning seven miles long by seven miles wide. While not totally accurate, that is pretty close. The map below is a good reference for your tour around the town.

The area is generally safe and clean. Like any big city, you must be aware of your surroundings in this highly visited area. There may be pickpocketers, and car break-ins are known to happen. 

The North Side of San Francisco is where tourists/visitors spend the most time.

Starting on the northeast side of the City is the Embarcadero. This long boulevard runs along the Bay Front, where ships dock. So, if you are taking a cruise that starts or ends in San Francisco, you will be in this area.

North Beach, the Financial District, South Beach, Chinatown, and Mission Bay border the San Francisco Bay’s northeast corner. Not only are these some of the safest areas, but they are also where you will find many of the City’s best restaurants. From some of the best Italian food outside of Italy in North Beach to spicy Szechuan and savory Cantonese in Chinatown or the fresh seafood at Pier 39, your taste buds will be delighted.

Tadich Grill on California Street was founded in 1849 and is California’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. My favorite dish here is their huge Crab Louie, with the warm crusty San Francisco Sourdough bread alongside.

Coit Tower overlooks the Embarcadero from its perch atop Telegraph Hill and has a 360⁰ view of San Francisco from its observation deck.

Take a walk, ride one of the historic streetcars, or hire a pedi cab along the Embarcadero from the base of the Oakland Bay Bridge to the entertaining Pier 39. You will pass and maybe stop at some of the following places:

• The Ferry Building, with numerous shops & restaurants
• Grand views of the Bay and City skyline from Pier 7
• Exploratorium: A fun interactive museum focusing on Science, Art & Human Perception
• Fisherman’s Wharf  and Pier 39, where you can enjoy a ride on a carousel and see the “Infamous Sea Lions.”
• Musee Mecanique is an interactive museum of 20^th Century penny arcade games
• Lastly, a trip to Ghiradelli Square is definitely in order if you’re a chocolate lover like me.

Moving On Up To San Francisco’s Most Expensive Neighborhoods!

Russian Hill — Home to “the crookedest street in the world.” Lombard Street is a challenge to drive with its eight hairpin turns, but it is easy to photograph. If you take the Hyde Street Cable Car, you can hop off at Lombard and walk down to get a fun view at the bottom.

Nob Hill — “Where Little Cable Cars Take You Halfway To The Stars.” Between Jones Street to the west, California to the South, Powell Street to the east, and Sacramento to the north, you will find the poshest hotels in the City. The Fairmont, Stanford Court, The Huntington, and Mark Hopkins Intercontinental. It’s almost a must to have a drink at the “Top of the Mark” and enjoy 360⁰ views of San Francisco.

Grace Cathedral, Huntington Park, and The Pacific Union Club line the north side of California Street. You can stroll through the park and enjoy the beauty of this Episcopal Cathedral. But, you must be a member to enter the Pacific Union Club.

The Marina and Pacific Heights — The City’s most expensive neighborhoods. The streets here are lined with graceful homes ranging from spacious to huge mansions. Tucked into a quiet corner between the edge of the Marina and the Presidio is the Palace of Fine Arts. Initially built for the 1915 Worlds Fair, this gracious building has become one of the most Instagramable sites in San Francisco.

You finally come to The Golden Gate Bridge by following the roadway along the Bay west from the Marina District. Park your car or get dropped off on the southside of the Bridge, then grab a jacket and head out to walk across this world-famous icon of San Francisco.

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Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known But Still Safe Neighborhoods

The Presidio – A military base since 1776, first built by the Spanish and then occupied by the US, this gem became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in 1994. With its many beautiful hiking trails and the glorious Baker Beach, don’t miss visiting the Walt Disney Family Museum, Fort Point, or the Golden Gate Bridge.

Richmond—The Richmond District is a San Francisco neighborhood, mainly residential in nature, in the city’s northwest corner. This picturesque neighborhood is bordered by the Presidio to the north and Golden Gate Park to the south.

Lands End is in the northwest corner of San Francisco, offering some of the most spectacular ocean views in the city. Trails from here lead to the remains of Sutro Baths, the Labyrinth, and the Legion of Honor, one of the City’s best-known fine arts museums.

Golden Gate Park—William Hammond Hall designed Golden Gate Park in the 1870s. You might like this bit of trivia: the unincorporated area of sand dunes west of the then-City of San Francisco was known as the “Outside Lands.” Today, Outside Lands is one of the great music festivals celebrated in Golden Gate Park each August.

Serving as the City’s backyard, the park’s 1,000+ acres are home to the California Academy of Science, the DeYoung Museum, a small herd of bison, and so much more nestled among its lakes, meadows, and trails.

The Sunset – On the south side of Golden Gate Park, the Sunset District runs west from the Pacific Ocean up to the hills like Twin Peaks in the middle of town. This residential neighborhood has laid-back beachside charm and strong community bonds. Its claim to fame for visitors is the San Francisco Zoo and the long stretch of beach along the ocean.

There are many other quiet, inviting neighborhoods in the City. Noe Valley is known for its family-friendly vibe and welcoming atmosphere. Glen Park has its own small-town feel and tight-knit community. Haight-Ashbury nods back to the “Summer of Love” and, of course, the Castro district, which opens its arms to embrace the LGBQT+ community.

While less visited by tourists, these areas offer community, a sense of security, and peace of mind. The more residential neighborhoods of the City may not have the “Top Tier Must See Sights” I listed above, but all offer safety and charm. If you have the time and want to get to know the City, not just the “Sights,” it is well worth it to venture off the beaten path and discover these safe sanctuaries.

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Caution Zones: Navigating Sketchy Areas

Most violent crime in San Francisco happens in specific neighborhoods, often due to drug deals and gangs. Unless you’re with someone who knows the area well, it’s best to avoid these places:

Tenderloin—This is a historically gritty area with a high violent crime rate. Several community organizations are home to the Tenderloin, and they want to see the neighborhood improve. However, visitors should avoid this area.

Civic Center — Bordering the Tenderloin is home to San Francisco’s City Hall. Most areas of the Civic Center are usually safe. Market Street between Golden Gate and Hayes is a common area for drug deals. Walking around during the day is fine, but do not linger in this area at night.

Bayview – This is primarily an industrial area, and tourists don’t have much reason to visit. The location is known for more violent crimes, including gun violence, so it’s best to avoid this spot when visiting San Francisco.

Hunters Point is San Francisco’s most impoverished district. Crime has increased in this neighborhood in recent years. But there aren’t many tourist attractions or landmarks here, so I’d avoid Hunters Point, as there is no reason to risk a visit.

The Mission District—This neighborhood is usually well-populated with its many popular restaurants, bars, and Latin vibe. West of Valencia Street is typically safe, while east of Valencia begins to feel sketchier. Do avoid the area of 16th Street between Mission and S Van Ness (The Mission Bart Station), which is a hotspot for theft and violent crimes.

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Yes, There Is A High Number of Homeless People In San Francisco

San Francisco has a large proportion of unhoused folks who live on the street and need better social services and support for people dealing with drug use or mental illness. But most of SF’s homeless population will not bother you.

Many people associate homeless people and camps with crime and drug addiction. However, statistics show that increases in homeless camps are not correlated with increases in property crime.

There’s also a common assumption that homeless people use their money to buy drugs and alcohol. It’s helpful to remember that people with houses do this, too.

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Safety Tips for Exploring San Francisco

The most common crime in San Francisco is car break-ins and robberies. Tourists are targeted because they are seen as more likely to have cash and valuables.

​​Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas like Fisherman’s Wharf, Twin Peaks, and other tourist attractions. Also, pay attention while on public transportation and at markets.

Theft also tends to occur in areas where tourists are known to congregate. Being aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure is essential.

While down 55% in 2023 over 2022, car break-ins are common in San Francisco. This occurs more often when valuables are left in plain sight on car seats.

Safety Dos:

• Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert when walking in unfamiliar areas.
• It’s best not to carry a lot of cash or valuables. If you must, keep them concealed and don’t draw attention to yourself.
• San Francisco is a busy city. Always be patient when waiting for transportation or crossing the street.
• Carry your identification and, if necessary, your visa with you at all times, just in case you need to show them to authorities.
• Use reputable transportation options and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas.
• Seek guidance from locals or authorities if feeling unsure or threatened.

And a Few Don’ts

• Don’t leave your car unlocked, and don’t leave any valuables inside.
• Trust your instincts and use common sense. Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas, especially at night.
• Don’t wear your headphones; keep your head up and be alert while walking in the street.

Natural Dangers To Be Aware Of When You Visit San Francisco

This beautiful City is well known to experience earthquakes. Tremors are usually short-lived, but to be safe, move away from any possible falling glass or debris.

Ocean Beach is a beautiful spot to enjoy from the shore. Few people know about its deadly riptides. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon watching the local surfers ride the waves. But swimming is not advisable. And never turn your back on the tide; a sneaker wave can come anytime.

Finally, know that there are many steep hills in San Francisco. They can be tricky to navigate if you’re not used to them. If you haven’t read my post “Why It’s Important To Get In Shape For Travel,” this may be an excellent time to look.

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Conclusion: Is San Francisco Safe To Visit? Absolutely Yes!

San Francisco is a safe city to visit, comparable to any major international destination. While it has challenges, such as specific neighborhoods with higher crime rates and a visible homeless population, most of the city remains welcoming and secure for tourists.

From the bustling streets of Chinatown to the serene trails of Golden Gate Park, San Francisco offers diverse experiences that showcase its unique charm and vibrant culture. Whether you’re savoring world-class cuisine, exploring historic landmarks, or simply enjoying the stunning bay views, San Francisco is a city that promises a memorable and enriching visit.

The key to a safe and enjoyable visit is to be mindful of your surroundings, avoid the more troubled areas, and take standard precautions, such as securing your valuables.

So, pack your bags, stay aware, and get ready to discover all the wonders this iconic city has to offer.