Ask any local in
San Francisco about the best places to stay in the city, and many will say it's the Mission District. This Latin-enthused neighborhood, filled with such colorful culture, cuisine, and comforts, never fails to excite and entertain locals and tourists alike. The district proves the city's diversity, having embraced Latin-American traditions and being open to embracing more. Everyone is welcome here, and the neighborhood has opened its doors to share its fascinating customs, must-try hotspots, and even its beautiful Mission Dolores Park. Learn more about the Mission District and see why so many love it here.
Where is the Mission District in San Francisco?
The Mission District encompasses a huge part of southeastern San Francisco. It lies directly southeast of Downtown San Francisco, making it an easy place to access via public transport. No matter where you're coming from, you won't find it hard to get to the Mission District by commuting. Especially since the place itself is surrounded by other
central neighborhoods in San Francisco. No less than The Castro, Dolores Heights, the Design District, and Portero Hill border the area. Such proximity to these equally prominent neighborhoods also makes it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
Is it Safe in the Mission District, San Francisco?
The answer to this is a little bit complicated. Generally speaking, yes, the Mission District is a fairly safe neighborhood. It's especially safe here during the day, almost to the point that you can freely explore the area from late morning to early afternoon. Come nightfall, however, you'd do well to take the necessary safety precautions. The Mission District at night isn't necessarily the most dangerous part of the city, but it's unfortunately right up there. After dark, the place contributes to the high
crime rates in San Francisco, specifically the areas near the BART stations and Mission Street.
What's The Vibe in the Mission District, San Francisco?
Latin culture reigns supreme in the Mission District, making it one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in San Francisco. Street art decorates the area, adding a bit of color to the already diverse metropolis. And speaking of diversity, the Mission District's predominantly Latin-American community gave way to the various Latin-owned shops, restaurants, cafes, and more, each more fascinating than the next. It's also because of this that the neighborhood rose to become a popular foodie spot in the city. Anyone visiting or
moving to San Francisco interested in indulging in the city's diverse cultures and cuisines will want to stay here.
Is it Expensive in the Mission District, San Francisco?
Don't let the Mission District's gritty-looking street art fool you! The neighborhood may seem like it would be affordable here, but it's not. The Mission District adds to
San Francisco's high living costs with its pricey rent, hotspots, and more. The average rent here is about $3,400.00 per month, similar to the city-wide average. While the price isn't uncommon in San Francisco, it's undoubtedly expensive in the grand scheme of things. Even eating out in the Mission District is pricey, with meals in inexpensive restaurants ranging from $18.00 to $25.00 per person.
What to See in the Mission District, San Francisco
Though it's become more famous for its foodie scene, the Mission District still has several notable sights to see. The most popular is Mission Dolores Park, arguably the city's most famous green space. Perched atop one of San Francisco's highest hills, the park overlooks the rest of the city, giving one of the best views in the entire metropolis. For a bit of history, check out Mission Dolores Church, which was built in 1776. The church is as old as America itself, and the fact that it has been preserved over all these years is nothing short of extraordinary.
What to Do in the Mission District, San Francisco
Eat, dance, and live life in San Francisco's Mission District, one of the city's most colorful neighborhoods. Most famously, the local Latin-American community defines the area, enlivening it with their culture and sharing their delicious cuisines with the rest of the city. Hence, this is one of the best places to let out your inner foodie, especially if you want to indulge in Authentic Mexican, Peruvian, Puerto Rican, and Caribbean cuisines. You can also see amazing art by its colorful streets or catch a movie at the Roxie Street on 16th Street, one of San Francisco's best arthouse cinemas.
The Best Restaurants in the Mission District, San Francisco
As already mentioned, the Mission District is the ultimate place to enjoy Latin-American cuisine. The city even became famous for its many Latin eateries, from the famous La Taqueria on Mission Street to the more non-traditional Loló on Valencia Street. What's great about these places and more is that they don't just serve authentic Latin cuisines, but they're also unafraid to put their own unique spins. From the most traditional to the most experimental, the Mission District's best restaurants are some of the country's best places to enjoy Latin-American food.
The Mission District undoubtedly has some of the best places to eat in San Francisco, especially:
- La Taqueria on Mission Street
- Blue Plate on Mission Street
- Mr. Pollo on Mission Street
- Lolina on Mission Street
- Foreign Cinema on Mission Street
- Loló on Valencia Street
- Lazy Bear on 19th Street
- Flour + Water on Harrison Street
- The Morris on Mariposa Street
- Penny Roma on 20th Street
What to Know About Renting in the Mission District, San Francisco
Mission District remains pretty expensive as far as rent is concerned. The average rent here is about $3,400.00 per month, similar to the city-wide average and practically double the nationwide average. Though it's still possible to find a place that costs way less than that, they're bound to also be a lot smaller than the typical
luxury apartments to rent in San Francisco. A micro apartment less than 50 square meters in the Mission District can still go for as much as $1,700.00 per month, but don't be surprised if a place that's only a little bit bigger will already cost the average.
With its bustling streets and distinct Latin flavor, the Mission District is one of the best places to stay in San Francisco. This diverse neighborhood shows off the colorful side of the city, offering different cultures, cuisines, and more.
