Welcome back to Curbed Comparisons, where we scour the San Francisco's rental listings to see what your monthly budget will get you across the city. This week, we're investigating apartments listed for $2,850/month, San Francisco's average rental price in 2013. When we've looked at this price range in the past, you've pretty consistently favored units with nice finishes over those with more space. What will win out this time around - character, view, renovated kitchen, space, or trendy neighborhood? You tell us which lease you'd sign.
↑ On the end of the Panhandle, this unique attic-level one bedroom is going for $2,850/month. The unit looks small, but Golden Gate Park is basically your front yard. The kitchen is sadly dated, but there's hardwood throughout. And the pitched ceilings and triangle windows really can't be beat if you're looking for character. Laundry in the building, cats allowed, and no parking.
↑ In Nob Hill, this top-floor one bedroom with views of the Golden Gate Bridge is asking $2,850/month. The wall-to-wall carpet is drab and the kitchen is tiny, but that is one heck of a view. Hyde Street restaurants and trendy Polk street is a short (but steep) walk away. Laundry in the building, cats allowed, and parking is available for an additional $295/month.
↑ In the Richmond, this bi-level one bedroom cottage is slightly over-budget at $2,900/month. The cottage is free-standing and located at the back of the property with an odd-sounding layout. The upper floor features hardwood floors in the living and bedroom, and a nicely renovated kitchen. The living room looks small, but there are 3 carpeted "bonus" rooms downstairs (which sound like a glorified basement). Cats allowed and no parking.
↑ In Upper Market, this 2-bed, 2-bath is under-budget at $2,800/month. The amenities are enticing: in-unit laundry, garage parking, and a small private deck with views. The living room even has hardwood, with a fireplace. But the unit lacks character, the kitchen is very dated, and the bedrooms have mirrored closets and grey carpet even extending to the sink and vanity part of the master en suite.