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, United States 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, casual eateries, grocery store picnics, and food trucks.
Muni bus/streetcar passes, BART for longer distances, walking.
Exploring Golden Gate Park, walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting free museums on specific days.
Souvenirs, occasional coffee or snack.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a well-located Airbnb apartment.
Mix of casual restaurants, cafes, and one nicer dinner.
Occasional ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) and BART/Muni.
Alcatraz tour, cable car ride, museum entrance fees, Ferry Building exploration.
Small purchases, drinks, tips.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
Luxury 4-5 star hotel in a prime location with amenities.
Fine dining, tasting menus, premium cocktails.
Private car services, frequent ride-sharing, or chauffeured tours.
Private guided tours, exclusive experiences, premium tickets to shows or events.
High-end shopping, spa treatments, premium incidentals.
Destination-specific money tips
- •San Francisco is notoriously expensive, especially for accommodation and dining. Book well in advance.
- •While many places accept cards, carry some cash for smaller vendors or tips, especially in less touristy areas.
- •Using ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft can be cheaper than traditional taxis for short to medium distances.
- •Consider purchasing a Muni Passport for unlimited travel on public transport if you plan to use it frequently.
- •Be aware of ATM fees; use ATMs associated with major banks to minimize charges.
Plan the rest of your San Francisco trip
Trip budgets elsewhere