Millbrae, California stands out as one of the cheapest suburbs for renters near San Francisco, known for offering significantly lower average rents, robust transit infrastructure, and a suburban lifestyle. From its direct SFO connection to its cost of living, here’s what to know about Millbrae as an alternative to big-city living.
Rent and cost of living in Millbrae
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Millbrae is about $2,000—a major decrease from SF’s average of $3,430, according to Rent.com. While other nearby suburbs like Daly City and Pacifica come close, it’s hard to beat the rent affordability in Millbrae.
However, despite the low rental averages, it’s worth noting that Millbrae still maintains a high cost of living. Payscale.com tells us that Millbrae’s cost of living is 76% higher than the national average, which has to do largely with housing costs—meaning that if you’re in Millbrae to buy rather than rent, you can still expect some steep prices. Groceries, utilities, and healthcare are also higher than the national average.
SFO and transit connections
In a country dependent on cars, arguably one of Millbrae’s most redeeming qualities is its public transportation infrastructure. While the city is located about 15 miles south of Downtown SF, it has numerous connections to San Francisco via BART, Caltrain, SamTrans buses, and more.
Frequent travelers can enjoy several direct routes to San Francisco International Airport, which is only about 2 miles away from Millbrae. Options include a four-minute journey on BART or a ten-minute journey via SamTrans Route 292.
Lifestyle and community
Despite its proximity to San Francisco and Silicon Valley, Millbrae maintains a charming small-town feel that’s good for families. This comes through in ongoing cultural community celebrations, locally-owned businesses throughout the downtown area, and active public organizations like the library and the Parks and Recreation Department. Popular haunts include the 8.1-acre Central Park and the newly built Millbrae Recreation Center.
Thanks to its lower rents, excellent transit connections, and close-knit community atmosphere, Millbrae has a lot to offer. Would you consider making the move?