Let the numbers do the talking.
Davis, CA vs San Francisco, CA
Davis, CA vs San Francisco, CA: What the data shows
Davis, CA is in Davis, CA while San Francisco, CA is in San Francisco, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Davis, CA is the more affordable option at $834,200 median — $230,900 less than San Francisco, CA's $1,065,100. WYLT rates Davis, CA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and San Francisco, CA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Davis, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. San Francisco, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Davis, CA has Low flood risk and San Francisco, CA has Low flood risk.
San Francisco, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Davis, CA scores 23/100 (car-dependent) versus San Francisco, CA's 90/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Davis, CA rates 5/10 and San Francisco, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Davis, CA | San Francisco, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $834K ✓ Lower price | $1.07M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $69K | $111K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 23/100 | 90/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 32/100 | 73/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 70/100 | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 23 min | 2 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | College StudentsFamilies with childrenRemote workers | Tech professionals who need proximity to downtownRemote workers who value walkability and public transitYoung singles and couples looking for a vibrant city lifestyle |
Bottom line
If you prioritize walkability, public transit, and a vibrant city lifestyle, San Francisco's 94103 ZIP code is the better choice, despite its high cost of living. For those seeking a more affordable option with top-rated schools and a strong sense of community, Davis is a solid alternative, particularly for families and college students. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal priorities and budget.
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