South of Market Neighborhood, San Francisco CA

About South of Market Neighborhood

“SoMa” refers most specifically to the section closest to the Mission, with the most restaurants and nightlife; “Yerba Buena” is in the middle, and is known for its density of museums and shopping; and "South Beach" is on the side next to the Bay (although there’s no beach to speak of) and is full of high-rises and not too much else. South Beach is quickly becoming its own neighborhood, but for now it falls under the general SoMa umbrella.

This area was once zoned primarily for commercial use and that history is still present in the lofts and apartments fashioned from converted warehouses and office space. On smaller side streets you’ll occasionally find a Victorian or a modern condominium. Brick walk-ups are common, as are high-rises; these tend to be more common the further west you go.

History of South of Market Neighborhood

Historically, SoMa was an industrial area filled with warehouses and factories. In the late 20th century, particularly during the 1990s tech boom, many of these industrial buildings were converted into lofts and office spaces, attracting tech companies and young professionals to the area.

Demographics of South of Market Neighborhood

As of 2022, SoMa has a population of approximately 19,382 residents. The median age is 36, with 59.16% male and 40.84% female residents. The median household income is $153,765.

Transportation in South of Market Neighborhood

The north of SoMa along Market Street provides the best public transportation with the trifecta of San Francisco (BART, busses, and light rail), and also where a lot of nightlife, shopping, and convenience stores can be found. A few buses run along the rest, but the sheer size of this neighborhood can make transportation less convenient if you’re not near a bus route.

SoMa is well-served by public transportation, including Muni buses and the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system. The neighborhood is approximately a 20-minute drive from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) via US-101 N. Major roads in the area include Market Street, 3rd Street, and 4th Street.

Politics in South of Market Neighborhood

San Francisco operates under a mayor-council system, with the mayor serving as the city's chief executive. The city is known for its progressive policies, which have influenced developments in neighborhoods like SoMa, including zoning laws that have facilitated the transformation of industrial spaces into residential and commercial properties.

Lifestyle in South of Market Neighborhood

Large office buildings dotted between residential housing can block the sun and keep the weather cooler here as a result. This neighborhood is increasingly attractive to fledgling startups in coworking spaces and the people who work for them. It’s less attractive for families, especially those with young children.

Schools in South of Market Neighborhood

While SoMa is primarily a business and residential area, it is served by several schools within the San Francisco Unified School District. Nearby schools include the San Francisco International High School and the Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Real estate in South of Market Neighborhood

The South Beach area consists mainly of high-rise apartment buildings and condos, many with waterfront views, and the enormous AT&T baseball park, where most of the bars and restaurants in this area can be found.

There are still vast empty lots and the area can feel a bit deserted, although the exponential growth of tech companies moving into the area ensures it will fill out soon. For now it’s got a stiff urban edge, bridge traffic, and noise until you get to your nice apartment. The expansive apartment complex, Bayview Village, can be found in South Beach and has many of the amenities of an actual village in or near it (just don’t get confused with the Bayview neighborhood). The Rincon Hill area in particular is very built up, and is part of the iconic San Francisco skyline as seen from the east.

SoMa is bordered on the north by the Financial District, on the east by San Francisco Bay, and on the south by Potrero Hill and The Mission.

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