How to Find Cheap Apartments in San Francisco

San Francisco is one of America's most beautiful metropolitan cities, a place that thousands of students, families, and single professionals call home. The cost of living is higher than most regions of the United States so finding a cheap apartment can be challenging. Still, there are a few ways to find the right fit for your tastes and budget; here's how to find cheap apartments in San Francisco.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Map of San Francisco
• Local newspaper
• Internet connection
• Driver's license
• Money for a security deposit

1. Visit the City-Data forums for information about San Francisco. This is a valuable resource for learning about specific areas in and around San Francisco, and can give you an idea of the neighborhood that you want to move to.
2. Search listings on ApartmentHunterz.com. This site provides listings of San Francisco apartments by location and price range. Use the search features to filter down to exactly what you need.
3. Look at rent specials on California Rent Source. This site lists a number of affordable rent specials and discounts available. Search through listings with pictures and amenities lists.
4. Check listings on the San Francisco Craigslist. Apartments can be filtered down by your price range, and you'll find a number of low-cost apartments offered by independent landlords and apartment complexes.
5. Check specific areas on Apartments.com. This site features both manager-owned properties and independent units available on the market. Browse and search by area and price range for the most updated information.
6. Run a free search with your price range on RentinSanFrancisco.com. This site features thousands of listings that are updated regularly. You can locate apartments by keyword, city/neighborhood, and zipcode.

Tips & Warnings

• Many specials and discounts are available for signing a one-year lease; check with the landlord about current offers.
• Be prepared to put down a minimum of one month's rent as a security deposit.
• Always find out as much information as possible about the neighborhood's crime rates and general safety information.