Why companies relocate talent to San Francisco

San Francisco (and the wider Bay Area) remains one of the most strategic destinations for international assignments, despite market corrections.

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🏭 Key industries

• Technology & AI
• Software, SaaS, Cloud
• Biotech & Life Sciences
• Venture Capital & Innovation

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👤 Typical assignee profiles

• Senior executives
• Technical leaders
• R&D and innovation roles
• Short- to mid-term strategic assignments

👉 Even with remote work, on-site presence remains critical for leadership, product, and innovation teams.

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💸 Cost of living: what HR teams must anticipate

San Francisco is consistently among the most expensive cities in the US.

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🏠 Monthly housing (approx.)

• 1-bedroom apartment: $3,600–$6,000+
• Family-sized housing (2–3 bedrooms): $4,900–$20,000+

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🧾 Other key costs

• Groceries: +20–30% above US average
• Transportation: high if commuting across the Bay Area
• Childcare & private schools: significant budget impact

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💰 How much do you need to earn to live comfortably?

For international assignees, a comfortable income level typically starts at:

• $130,000–$150,000/year (single professional)
• $180,000–$260,000+++/year (family with children)

👉 Below this range, housing compromises or long commutes are often unavoidable.

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🏘️ Housing reality on the ground

• Highly selective landlords
• Strong preference for US credit history
• Paid guarantor services frequently required for international profiles
• Application processes move fast – delays are costly

➡️ Early housing strategy is essential.

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🚗 Driving license: what expats need to know

A foreign driving license is accepted temporarily (duration depends on state rules and insurance).

A California driver’s license is required for:

• Long-term stays
• Purchasing or leasing a vehicle
• Easier insurance approval

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📝 Key steps

• Written test (knowledge test)
• Driving test (often required, even for experienced drivers)
• Appointment delays are common → plan early

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😮 What surprises most expats?

• Cost of daily life beyond rent
• Commute time across the Bay Area
• Administrative timelines (DMV, housing approvals)
• Fewer “turnkey” housing solutions than expected

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🧑‍💼 Why this matters for HR & Mobility teams?

• Compensation must reflect local reality, not national averages
• Housing and driving readiness directly impact productivity
• Late planning leads to higher costs and employee frustration

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🧠 Key takeaway

San Francisco remains a global innovation hub, but successful relocations require anticipation, realistic budgeting, and strong local execution.