Welcome back to Curbed Comparisons, where we scour the San Francisco's rental listings to see what your monthly rent will get you across the city. This week, we're investigating apartments listed for $2,500. This dollar amount is about $150/month below the average price of a one-bedroom in the city, so what compromises do you have to make if you still want more than a studio? Let's find out.
? If neighborhood is your priority, $2,495/month can get you this charming studio in classically desirable Cow Hollow. The hardwood floors and kitchen cabinets have been refinished, the kitchen area includes an eat-in dining nook, and it's top floor with a nice view. Plus, garbage, water, and heat are included in the rent, so with the money you save on utilities, maybe you can afford the parking space available for an extra $300/month.
? If living space is at the top of your list, $2,475/month can get you this Victorian one-bedroom in the Inner Richmond. The kitchen is sizable (including a dishwasher!) with a walk-in pantry, and there's a private washer and dryer on the porch. No option for parking, but the location doesn't look too isolating -- possibly walking distance from USF and the Panhandle.
? If you're willing to go a little farther out into the Inner Richmond, you can get this nicely renovated one-bedroom with office (or two-bedroom conversion!) for $2,520/month. Here you get over 1,000 square feet, more beautiful hardwood, a fireplace, a pair of French doors, and laundry in the building. You're still stuck with street parking, but it's close to major Muni lines.
? If you're looking for a loft, you can score this contemporary pad in Potrero Hill for $2,600/month including parking. It's only 453 square feet, but the finishes and perks add value: in-unit washer and dryer, bamboo floors, brand new stainless steel appliances in the kitchen, gym and yoga studio in the complex, and it's right above a Whole Foods.
? Finally, if you want a taste of classic SF culture, you can score this one-bedroom in the Upper Haight for $2,495/month. The kitchen and bathroom are tiny but have been freshly remodeled. The hardwood and top-floor location make it bright, and thankfully it looks like the bedroom is in the back of the unit, because being located right off of Haight Street, we can only imagine how noisy it must be.