No car? No problem. Here’s how locals move around the city faster, cheaper, and smarter.

Let’s be honest: owning a car in San Francisco can feel like more trouble than it’s worth. Between sky-high parking fees, narrow streets, and unpredictable traffic, driving often adds more stress than convenience. And if you’re new to the city, you’re probably wondering:

“Can I get around San Francisco without a car?” Absolutely! And you might even prefer it that way.

Whether you’re commuting, meeting friends, or just exploring the city, here are the best car-free ways to navigate SF, including a local hack that’s saving residents serious time and money.

1. BART and Muni: The Classic Combo

San Francisco’s public transit system, a mix of BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) and Muni buses and streetcars, covers most of the city and connects to the East Bay and Peninsula. It’s reliable during peak hours, but it can get crowded and expensive, especially for daily commuters.

Pros:
– Covers major parts of the city
– Connects to Oakland, Berkeley, Daly City, etc.
– No need to worry about parking

Cons:
– Delays and outages are common
– Limited coverage in some neighborhoods
– Clunky for short trips or late-night travel

2. Walking: Perfect for Short Distances

SF is only 7×7 miles: small enough to walk between many neighborhoods. If you live and work in the same general area, walking can be surprisingly efficient. You’ll pass colorful houses, murals, coffee shops, and those classic Victorian stoops that make SF so photogenic.

Just one heads-up: the hills are real. And they’re not shy. One moment you’re on a flat street, the next you’re climbing what feels like a mini mountain.

3. Biking: Fast, Affordable, and Shockingly Fun

If you haven’t considered biking in San Francisco yet, you’re missing out. Thanks to new protected bike lanes, bike-friendly routes, and a growing local cycling culture, it’s easier than ever to ride safely through the city.

You can bike from Mission to SoMa in 10 minutes! All while avoiding traffic and delays completely! You’ll never pay for parking again, and save all other costs associated with owning and driving a car.

Worried about hills? Most bike routes in SF are designed to avoid the steepest streets.

4. Rideshares and Car Shares: For the Occasional Trip

While you might not need a car every day in San Francisco, there are times when having four wheels just makes sense, like a big grocery haul, an IKEA trip, or a weekend escape to wine country.

For those moments, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft can be super convenient, especially if you’re heading somewhere Muni doesn’t quite reach. And for more flexibility (or if you want to drive yourself), car-sharing services like Zipcar, Getaround, or Kyte let you rent a vehicle by the hour or day, without the hassle of ownership.

Just keep in mind: demand tends to spike during weekends, holidays, and big events like Outside Lands or Bay to Breakers. Prices can climb quickly, and availability can be tight. Booking early helps, and if you’re splitting the cost with a friend, it’s often still cheaper than owning your own car in the city.

It’s a great backup plan, but probably not your go-to for everyday travel.

5. A Smarter Way to Bike: Try a Monthly Bike Subscription

If you like the idea of biking but don’t want to invest in your own bike or deal with maintenance, there’s a smarter solution: BikePass.

What is BikePass?

BikePass is a monthly bike subscription designed just for SF locals. It gives you access to a high-quality bike without the stress of owning one.

Why locals love it:

• Unlimited biking anytime, anywhere. No daily return needed.
• Helmet and lock included.
• Something wrong with the bike? Swap bikes at any location.
• Rent for less than $2/day.
• Never wait for the train again.

Whether you’re commuting to work, hitting class, or just exploring, BikePass gives you the freedom to ride SF on your terms, independently.

It’s biking, without the ownership headaches.

Bonus: Combine Your Options

Many locals mix and match their transport depending on the day. Bike to the BART station, then train to Berkeley. Walk to work on sunny days, bike home when running late. You don’t have to pick one method, but having the freedom to choose makes city life a lot smoother.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need a Car in San Francisco

Getting around San Francisco without a car isn’t just possible, it’s often the better way! You’ll save money, avoid traffic, and explore the city up close.

And if you want the ultimate freedom to move on your own terms?
Try BikePass, and see how fun, fast, and freeing life on two wheels can be.

Ready to ride San Francisco your way?
Check out BikePass by Unlimited Biking, the smarter way to move.