Let the numbers do the talking.
Pasadena, CA vs San Francisco, CA
Pasadena, CA vs San Francisco, CA: What the data shows
Pasadena, CA is in Pasadena, CA while San Francisco, CA is in San Francisco, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, Pasadena, CA is the more affordable option at $1,053,000 median — $605,200 less than San Francisco, CA's $1,658,200. WYLT rates Pasadena, CA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and San Francisco, CA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Pasadena, CA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Pasadena, CA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. San Francisco, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Pasadena, CA has Low flood risk and San Francisco, CA has Low flood risk.
San Francisco, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. Pasadena, CA scores 10/100 (car-dependent) versus San Francisco, CA's 93/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Pasadena, CA rates 5/10 and San Francisco, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | Pasadena, CA | San Francisco, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.05M ✓ Lower price | $1.66M |
| Median Rent | $4K | $3K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $123K | $185K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 10/100 | 93/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 77/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 36/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 15 min | 6 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesProfessionalsYoung adults | Tech professionals looking for proximity to downtownPeople who walk or bike to workFood lovers who enjoy a mix of local eateries |
Bottom line
For families or those seeking more affordable housing options, Pasadena's 91105 neighborhood is the better choice. San Francisco might be more suitable for young professionals looking for the ultimate urban experience, but be prepared for extremely high living costs and compromised long-term viability. Alternatively, San Francisco's proximity to downtown and walkability might make it a suitable option for short-term or very specific situations.
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