I earn $80,000 in San Francisco but can’t afford to live alone. The city’s acceptance of gay people is one reason I won’t move.

I earn $80,000 in San Francisco but can't afford to live alone. The city's acceptance of gay people is one reason I won't move.

Living in San Francisco: A Vibrant City with High Costs and Endless Charm

San Francisco

Living in San Francisco can be both a dream and a challenge. The city is known for its breathtaking beauty, diverse culture, and vibrant atmosphere. However, the cost of living is notoriously high, leaving many questioning if they can afford to stay. In this as-told-to essay, we hear from a building manager in San Francisco who sheds light on his own experiences and insights into life in the city.

An Inside Look into Life in San Francisco

The building manager, in his mid-30s and residing in San Francisco for over a decade, candidly discusses his perspective on the city. While he loves the unique charm of San Francisco, he expresses concern about the exorbitant cost of living, making retirement seem like an unattainable goal.

Living in the city, he shares a four-bedroom house in the coveted neighborhood of Hayes Valley with three roommates who are also in their 30s. Their shared monthly rent of $1,200 is a fortunate arrangement in a city where many struggle to find affordable housing.

Though the building manager earns an annual salary of $80,000, he doubts he could comfortably sustain the expenses of living alone in San Francisco. Rental prices for a two-bedroom apartment easily surpass $2,500, leaving little room in the budget for other necessities.

The Price of Living: A Laughable Salad and Weekend Expenses

Humorously, the building manager highlights the staggering cost of living in San Francisco, particularly when it comes to dining out. He jokes about the price of a simple salad, reminiscing about the days when the same ingredients were half the price. The reality of the city’s high prices extends beyond food; socializing can quickly drain one’s wallet, making it difficult to save money, even with a higher income.

To mitigate his expenses, the building manager opts not to own a car, relying on the city’s transit system. While this choice helps reduce costs, he acknowledges that paying for public transportation is still a necessary expense.

The rising costs of goods and services in San Francisco have led to a sentiment that the value received in return for money spent is diminishing. Despite this feeling, the city still offers an array of attractions and experiences that make it worth staying.

San Francisco’s Unparalleled Beauty and Enduring Culture

San Francisco, in the building manager’s eyes, remains one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Despite the changes and closures that have occurred in recent years, the city still retains its unique charm. The true magic of San Francisco lies within its neighborhoods, where the allure of the city thrives.

The building manager recommends exploring the scenic Marina District, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Bay Area. Valencia Street and Mission Street offer fantastic dining options and a vibrant community that adds to San Francisco’s cultural richness. The streets are always bustling, and throughout the year, the city hosts numerous events that bring people together.

Contrary to some alarming reports about crime, the building manager believes they are exaggerated and often conflated with the visible poverty in certain areas. While he acknowledges his own privilege as a male, he generally feels safe walking around the city and doesn’t believe that San Francisco resembles a “Zombie apocalypse,” as suggested by certain critics.

Feeling Safe and Accepted in San Francisco

As a gay man, the building manager emphasizes the importance of feeling safe and accepted, particularly given the current political climate in the United States. He openly states that he would never consider living in states like Florida or Texas, valuing San Francisco for its inclusivity and progressive atmosphere.

Despite the high cost of living and the potential shortcomings associated with it, the building manager firmly believes that the standard of living in San Francisco is unparalleled. Even if retirement seems financially out of reach, he expresses a contentment that resonates with many who have found solace in the city’s embracing nature and vibrant community.

In conclusion, living in San Francisco offers a unique blend of beauty, culture, and challenges. While the cost of living can be high, residents find ways to make it work and relish in the city’s countless charms. Whether it’s the scenic neighborhoods, diverse cuisine, or the sense of acceptance, San Francisco remains a place that captivates the hearts of those who choose to call it home.