Corner of Geary & Jones Safe?

Question

I was so happy to visit SF last month and find Union Square spotless! Yay! I did not venture off to where the hotels are. Is it safe to stay around the corner of Geary & Jones now?

Thanks!

Answer

The area around Geary & Jones in San Francisco is very close to Union Square, which is generally considered the heart of the downtown tourist district. During the day, it is busy with shoppers, hotel guests, and tourists, and is well-patrolled by local police. However, like much of central San Francisco, it has some street homelessness and occasional petty crime, so a basic level of caution is recommended.

Here are some considerations for staying around that corner:

Daytime: Very active, well-lit, and generally safe. You can walk to Union Square shops, Powell Street cable cars, and major hotels without much concern.
Nighttime: Less crowded, and while violent crime is uncommon, there can be panhandlers, people sleeping on sidewalks, and occasional car break-ins in nearby areas. Stick to main streets, well-lit areas, and avoid dark alleys.
Transportation: Easy access to public transport, including Muni buses and cable cars. Uber/Lyft pickups are also convenient here.

Tips to stay safe and comfortable:

Keep belongings secure and avoid leaving valuables visible in vehicles.
Use hotel safes for passports, electronics, and extra cash.
Be aware of your surroundings when walking, especially at night.
If you feel uncertain, take short rides (Uber/Lyft) to restaurants or attractions rather than walking alone at night.

Overall, staying near Geary & Jones is reasonable for first-time visitors who want central access to Union Square, shopping, and theaters. It is not a “rough” area, but normal urban precautions should be taken.

Corner of Geary & Jones Safe?

More San Francisco Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions