At SF Moving, we recognize that residents might be considering various destinations to move to from San Francisco. As one of the country’s most bustling and vibrant cities, San Francisco offers a unique lifestyle. Yet, the high cost of living or desire for change often prompts residents to seek fresh horizons. This blog post dives into attractive cities you might consider relocating to. Whether you’re a tech professional, a retiree, or someone seeking a more affordable lifestyle, we have you covered.
Phoenix, Arizona
First, let’s explore the allure of moving from San Francisco to Phoenix. The capital city of Arizona, fondly known as the Valley of the Sun, has seen an influx of Bay Area residents in recent years. The lower cost of living is undoubtedly a factor. Indeed, data shows that the overall cost of living in Phoenix is approximately 42.3% cheaper than in San Francisco. This disparity is especially pronounced in housing, where prices in Phoenix are a whopping 80% lower than those in the Bay Area.
What’s more, Phoenix offers a warm climate, ideal for those wishing to trade the foggy San Francisco weather for year-round sunshine. The city averages 299 sunny days per year, which is a stark contrast to San Francisco’s often chilly temperatures. Additionally, Phoenix’s job market is expanding, especially in sectors like healthcare, education, and finance. This means more opportunities and growth prospects for those willing to move.
Portland, Oregon
When talking about popular destinations for people moving from San Francisco, we cannot but mention Portland, Oregon. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Portland offers many outdoor activities. The city is home to over 10,000 acres of public parks, including the 5,200-acre Forest Park, one of the most extensive urban forests in the United States. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, and kayaking, often without leaving the city limits.
As an added bonus, Portland has a reputation for being eco-friendly. In fact, it was recognized as the greenest city in America by WalletHub in 2020. It boasts one of the highest numbers of LEED-certified buildings per capita and a robust public transportation system. This eco-conscious atmosphere might be a draw for those accustomed to the sustainability of California to contemplate moving from San Francisco to Portland.
On the culinary front, Portland stands out as a food lover’s paradise, famous for its unique food cart culture. With over 600 food trucks serving everything from Korean tacos to gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, you will indeed find a new favorite. The city is also home to innovative restaurants, many of which prioritize locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. These food offerings, coupled with a local love for beer and wine, make it a gastronome delight.
Data indicates that in recent years, approximately 2.5% of people leaving San Francisco have chosen Portland as their new home. However, given the city’s natural beauty, sustainable lifestyle, and delicious food, it’s no surprise that more and more San Francisco leavers are calling Portland home.
Seattle, Washington
Shifting our gaze north, Seattle is a popular choice for those moving from San Francisco. The appeal of this city, located between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, cannot be denied. The tech industry is a significant draw. Seattle is home to tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon, offering many opportunities for tech professionals.
Interestingly enough, Seattle combines its urban appeal with stunning natural beauty. With mountains and forests surrounding it, the city is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. So, if you enjoyed weekend hikes in Marin or Tahoe while living in San Francisco, you’ll find a similar joy in Seattle’s verdant landscape.
Another captivating aspect is Seattle’s rich cultural attractions. The city boasts an original art scene that features renowned venues like the Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Seattle Art Museum. Data suggests that around 2.9% of people are moving from San Francisco to Seattle, indicating its rising popularity.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Moving east, Nevada, presents an intriguing option for those considering moving from San Francisco to Las Vegas. While renowned for its bright lights and endless entertainment, Las Vegas offers more than just the Strip. Many don’t realize that Vegas boasts a comfortable suburban lifestyle, with numerous master-planned communities featuring parks, schools, and community centers.
Furthermore, the cost of living in Las Vegas is significantly lower than in San Francisco. For instance, housing is around 44.8% cheaper, which is a significant attraction for many Bay Area residents. Of course, Las Vegas’s entertainment scene is unparalleled, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the occasional night out.
Other notable destinations to move to from San Francisco
If none of the above happens to tickle your fancy, don’t worry. There are other cities worth considering, which include:
- Sacramento – the most popular choice, attracting nearly 9% of San Francisco leavers due to its lower cost of living and proximity to the Bay Area.
- Los Angeles – offers a similar lifestyle to San Francisco, complete with a beachy vibe and a slightly lower cost of living.
- Austin – the growing tech hub status, a lively music scene, and lower cost of living make it an appealing destination.
Listen to your gut when leaving San Francisco
As you can see, the destinations to move to from San Francisco are numerous. In this guide, we only mentioned a few of the most popular places people from the Bay Area are moving to. The USA covers a vast region with countless cities, towns, and villages. After all, you don’t have to follow moving trends when choosing your next home. Yours and your family’s preferences are the only important thing!
References:
Salary.com. (2023b). Cost of Living Comparison in San Francisco, CA vs Phoenix, AZ. Salary.com. https://www.salary.com/research/cost-of-living/compare/san-francisco-ca/phoenix-az/
Salary.com. (2023). Cost of Living Comparison in San Francisco, CA vs Las Vegas, NV. Salary.com. https://www.salary.com/research/cost-of-living/compare/san-francisco-ca/las-vegas-nv
