San Francisco is a top choice for digital nomads with its thriving tech scene, numerous co-working spaces, and ultra fast internet. The city’s startup culture fosters networking and entrepreneurship, while diverse neighborhoods offer a mix of work-friendly cafes and outdoor spaces to enjoy a balance between life and work.
Nomad Score: 5/10 ・ Cost of living: $5600/month ・ Internet speed: 500 Mbps
▶ citizenM San Francisco Union Square – King Room
▶ Hotel Zephyr San Francisco – Standard King Room
▶ Club Quarters Hotel Embarcadero – Small Queen Room
▶ Petite Auberge – Queen Room
▶ Hotel Majestic – Junior Suite
This guide will help you thrive in San Francisco as a digital nomad while enjoying its vibrant tech scene and cultural offerings:
1. Internet and Connectivity
- Wi-Fi: San Francisco boasts excellent high-speed internet. Many cafes, parks, and public spaces have free Wi-Fi, especially in tech-forward neighborhoods.
- Mobile Plans: Providers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon offer reliable 4G and 5G coverage with various prepaid and postpaid plans.
2. Co-working Spaces
San Francisco is one of the leading cities for co-working spaces due to its tech industry:
- WeWork: Multiple locations throughout the city, offering modern co-working options with a tech-focused community.
- Galvanize: A popular space with a vibrant startup culture, located in SoMa (South of Market).
- The Hivery: A women-centric co-working space in Fort Mason Center.
- Workshop Cafe: A hybrid between a cafe and co-working space, offering flexible seating and work-friendly environments.
3. Cost of Living
- Accommodation: San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the world. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central areas can range from $3,000 to $4,500 per month. Consider staying in neighborhoods like Mission or Sunset for more affordable options.
- Food: Dining out is also expensive, but San Francisco has a diverse food scene. You can find affordable options in Chinatown, Mission District, and at food trucks around the city.
- Co-working: Monthly membership for co-working spaces varies from $300 to $500, depending on the location and amenities.
4. Where to Stay
- Mission District: A vibrant area with an artistic vibe, offering more affordable housing and plenty of cafes for working.
- SoMa: The tech hub, close to startups and major companies, but expensive.
- Sunset District: A quieter and more residential area, slightly cheaper than central neighborhoods but still connected.
- Marina District: Popular with young professionals, with great cafes and proximity to the waterfront.
5. Transportation
- Public Transport: San Francisco has a well-connected transit system, including buses, streetcars, and the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) for commuting around the Bay Area. Consider getting a Clipper Card for seamless travel.
- Bicycles: San Francisco is bike-friendly but hilly, so electric bikes are a popular choice. Bike-sharing programs like Lyft’s Bay Wheels are widely available.
- Walking: The city is very walkable, but some neighborhoods are on steep hills, so be prepared for a workout.
6. Work-Friendly Cafes
- The Mill: Located in Alamo Square, offering good coffee and free Wi-Fi.
- Ritual Coffee Roasters: Found in the Mission District, it’s a favorite among remote workers.
- Andytown Coffee Roasters: A great spot in the Sunset District, close to the beach.
- Coffee Bar: A spacious cafe with great ambiance and plenty of room for working.
7. Visa and Legal Information
- ESTA: If you’re from a visa-exempt country, you can stay in the US for up to 90 days using an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). For longer stays, you may need a B-1/B-2 visa for business or tourism purposes.
8. Networking and Community
- San Francisco is home to a thriving digital nomad and entrepreneurial community:
- Meetups: Platforms like Meetup.com host numerous tech and startup events, where you can connect with like-minded individuals.
- SF Digital Nomads: Look for local Facebook groups and Nomad List entries to find remote workers and digital nomad gatherings.
- Tech Events: Keep an eye out for tech conferences and hackathons happening regularly in the city, especially in SoMa and around the Moscone Center.
9. Local Attractions and Leisure
- Golden Gate Park: A huge park perfect for outdoor activities, with free Wi-Fi hotspots in some areas.
- Golden Gate Bridge: A must-see landmark, often combined with a scenic bike ride or walk.
- Museums: Explore the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) or the Exploratorium, both offering rich cultural experiences.
- Fisherman’s Wharf: A bustling area with restaurants and scenic views, though very touristy.
10. Health and Safety
- Healthcare: Healthcare in the US is private and expensive, so make sure you have travel or expat health insurance.
- Safety: San Francisco is generally safe, but some areas like the Tenderloin can be less secure. Always be cautious with your belongings, as petty theft is common in tourist-heavy areas.
Bonus Tips
- Tech Scene: Take advantage of the tech-forward atmosphere of San Francisco. Many startups and tech giants are based here, offering a wealth of opportunities for networking and growth.
- Weather: San Francisco’s weather can change rapidly. It’s often cool and foggy, especially in the summer, so pack layers.
- Public Transport: Use apps like Transit or Google Maps to navigate the BART, MUNI, and bus lines easily.