Mission - San Francisco, CA Area Guide

During the 19th and 20th centuries, huge numbers of Irish and German immigrant workers moved into the Mission area. Development emerged after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, as displaced businesses and residents moved into the area. This flood of people and business made Mission Street a major commercial thoroughfare. From the late 1990s through the 2010s, young professionals have flocked to this neighborhood, including Latino-American middle-class families. Artists have also moved in to the area as it has a very lively art scene, including murals throughout the Mission walls and fences.

Annual events include Carnaval, the 24th Street Fair, the San Francisco Food Fair, the Cesar Chavez Holiday Parade, Open Studios, and LitCrawl. A bi-annual event typically held in May and October celebrates pedestrians and bicyclists by shutting down roads to automobile traffic and allowing people to bike and walk the neighborhood freely.

Due to its Latino influence, some of the best Mexican restaurants and taquerias in San Francisco can be found in the Mission. El Farolito has incredible Mexican food such as tacos, giant burritos, ceviche and tortas. Try the carnitas and nachos and expect to be full for days Many agree that El Farolito has the best carne asada burrito in northern California.

If Mexican food does not please your palate, have no fear. Several other dining options are located in the Mission neighborhood. Paprika serves up Czech, German, and Hungarian foods. Savory options include gnocchi, vegan sausage, chicken paprikash, and the bockwurst. Chug down a Czech beer in a huge glass boot. Be advised that you must pay in cash.

Additionally, a tasty option for breakfast and brunch in the area, Mission Public, lies on 14th Street. The walls showcase vibrant paintings by local artists. Stick around for happy hour and enjoy $4 beers on tap.

The nightlife in the Mission vicinity consists of dive bars and pubs as well as comedy clubs, pool halls and dance clubs. Slate Bar provides awesome specials for its guests. Sing and dance the night away at karaoke nights on Thursdays, or shoot some pool while enjoying time with friends. Another awesome nightlife option, EndGames Improv, puts on fantastic performing arts and comedy shows. Take an improv class to venture out of your comfort zone.

Locals prefer to move to and from the Mission neighborhood via public transit. If planning to use public transportation, the Muni light rail, buses, the infamous cable cars, cabs, trolley rides, and Uber all serve this area. Consider purchasing a Muni Passport, which grants commuters access to public transportation services, not including Uber, for a discounted price. Passes are available for one, three and seven days. Biking and walking rate as the most efficient ways to get around the nearby vicinity. Bike paths make a smooth ride for bicyclists. If you decide to drive your own personal car, parking lots are fairly accessible for nominal fees.

Various landmarks and parks can be found in the Mission area. As the largest park in the neighborhood, Dolores Park ranks as one of the most popular parks in the city. Visitors can find many free features including tennis courts, a basketball court, a soccer field, a children's playground and a dog play area. Views of the Mission district, downtown, the San Francisco Bay Bridge and the East Bay can all be accessed from Dolores Park. This location serves as a popular choice among locals looking for outdoor relaxation and recreational activities. Franklin Square Park houses a soccer field, a playground with a sandbox and a skateboard ramp. Bring the kids and dog for a family fun-filled day.

The overall cost of living in the Mission area checks in at 2 percent lower than that of San Francisco but 73 percent greater than the national average. Both the median housing values and median rental rates rank lower than the average prices in San Francisco. The median housing value is $708,381, which rates 5 percent lower than the San Francisco average, and the median rental rate for a one bedroom apartment comes in at 1 percent lower than the rest of San Francisco at $1,424. When compared to the rest of San Francisco, the Mission District really proves to be an affordable place to live. Gas runs 9 percent higher than the national average, and the price for a beer at a local pub will set you back only $3 at a local dive bar.

Convenient shopping in Mission attracts people to this area. Mission Street's corner bodegas and kiosks serve as great places to buy artwork, everyday household items, and unique souvenirs. The pricier boutiques lie along Valencia Street.

Dandelion carries a wide selection of gifts for every budget. Shoppers looking for a fun store full of funky accessories should head out to Therapy, which also sells women's and men's clothing. Foxglove showcases merchandise from local designers includes hair accessories, jewelry, and clothing for both women and men.

The Mission District prides itself in having several excellent bookstores, including Borderlands Books, Dog Eared Books, and Modern Times Bookstore. A handful of newsstands also can be found.

Several farmers markets permeate the Mission vicinity. Valencia Farmers Market has freshly squeezed orange juice made to order. Shoppers can also find fresh, healthy, organic fruits and vegetables. Another hard-to-find farmers market called the Free Farm Stand actually gives away free produce. As unbelievable as that sounds, families on tight budgets can still enjoy locally grown and gleaned produce. If you prefer a supermarket, Evergreen Supermarket can serve all of your grocery needs.