United States · tool
How much does San Francisco cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your San Francisco trip before you book anything.
San Francisco travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Hostel dorm bed or a private room in a shared house outside the city center.
Street food, food trucks, casual cafes, and groceries for self-catering.
Muni bus/streetcar passes, BART for longer distances, walking.
Golden Gate Park, walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, free museum days, window shopping.
Souvenirs, occasional coffee, laundry.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
3-star hotel or a well-located Airbnb apartment.
Mix of casual restaurants, cafes, and one nicer dinner.
Occasional ride-shares (Uber/Lyft), BART, Muni.
Museum entrance fees (de Young, SFMOMA), Alcatraz tour, cable car ride.
Drinks, snacks, small purchases.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
4-5 star hotel in a prime location like Union Square or Embarcadero.
Fine dining, tasting menus, high-end cocktails.
Frequent ride-shares, private car service for specific excursions.
Private tours, premium experiences like a bay cruise, theatre tickets.
Spa treatments, high-end shopping, premium bar tabs.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) are accepted almost everywhere; notify your bank before traveling.
- •ATMs attached to major banks usually have lower fees than standalone ones. Avoid ATMs in tourist traps.
- •Tipping is expected: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $2-5 per day for hotel housekeeping.
- •While many things are expensive, fresh produce at farmers' markets can be a good value.
- •Public transport is efficient but can be confusing for first-timers; download a transit app.