Let the numbers do the talking.
Glendale, CA vs San Francisco, CA
Glendale, CA vs San Francisco, CA: What the data shows
Glendale, CA is in Glendale, CA while San Francisco, CA is in San Francisco, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Glendale, CA is the more affordable option at $780,300 median — $284,800 less than San Francisco, CA's $1,065,100. WYLT rates Glendale, CA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and San Francisco, CA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
San Francisco, CA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Glendale, CA has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. San Francisco, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Glendale, CA has Low flood risk and San Francisco, CA has Low flood risk.
San Francisco, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Glendale, CA scores 42/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus San Francisco, CA's 90/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Glendale, CA rates 5/10 and San Francisco, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Glendale, CA | San Francisco, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $780K ✓ Lower price | $1.07M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $58K | $111K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 42/100 | 90/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 35/100 | 73/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 65/100 | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 15 min | 2 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesCommutersYoung Professionals | 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're a tech professional looking for walkability and proximity to downtown LA, Glendale might be a more affordable option for you, despite its lower walk score. If you're willing to sacrifice affordability for the world-class walkability and unbeatable transit of downtown San Francisco, that's still your best bet. Ultimately, Glendale is the better choice for families or those prioritizing affordability, while San Francisco suits those who value a vibrant city lifestyle and can afford it.
Share this comparison