Renting in SF is a strong value if you plan to live here for a while, but the property needs to be protected by rent control, otherwise you'll get wiped out during the booms and busts this city has.
Owning is also a strong value over the long term, but it is more complicated between taxes, mortgages, and city ordinances; it also comes with a lot more risk and way more upfront costs.
For people just moving to the city and haven't established any roots, don't rent or own: be a roommate. It is the best deal possible and you'll be own your way to making this place your home, if you want it to be.
"For people just moving to the city and haven't established any roots, don't rent or own: be a roommate. It is the best deal possible and you'll be own your way to making this place your home, if you want it to be."
Solid advise. I have been living in SF for the past six years and this is what I did initially. I now live in a rent controlled aparment and I have no intention of moving.
If you are going to be working in SF another viable option to consider is getting a place near a BART station in Oakland/Berkeley. Both are much cheaper places to live in than SF or the South Bay.
Owning is also a strong value over the long term, but it is more complicated between taxes, mortgages, and city ordinances; it also comes with a lot more risk and way more upfront costs.
For people just moving to the city and haven't established any roots, don't rent or own: be a roommate. It is the best deal possible and you'll be own your way to making this place your home, if you want it to be.