Let's talk about San Francisco.

It ranks as the healthiest city in the U.S. and 12th in the world, yet it is 25th in quality of life for those in their 30s.

This seems contradictory, but it reflects the current state of San Francisco.

Depending on which metrics you look at, this city can appear to be a paradise or, conversely, a terrible place to live.

The reason people say it feels completely different to those who live here versus outsiders is right here.

Starting with the positives, for older adults, it is nearly the top city.

Healthcare access is good, public transportation is well-developed, and there are plenty of parks and green spaces.

In terms of health metrics, it is considered the best in the U.S. It also ranks high in global city rankings.

Moreover, the popularity of AI-related industries is skyrocketing.

As we enter 2025, venture capital is flowing back in. Some areas that were once empty due to AI companies are slowly filling up again.

This city, which seemed dead, is indeed starting to breathe again.

However, when you look at the reality, the atmosphere changes dramatically. When the topic of housing prices comes up, expressions immediately turn serious.

The average rent starts at $3,000 to $4,000. Just doing the math, it's hard to manage unless you have a pretty high income.

Even more surprising is the mismatch between income and housing prices. Even the cheapest areas are unaffordable on an average income.

It's not just expensive; it's structurally out of balance.

The homelessness issue is even more complex. The city continues to spend a massive budget, yet the situation doesn't seem to improve significantly.

You can still see people using drugs on the streets. It seems like spending more money would solve the problem, but it shows that this is a structural issue beyond just money.

Still, the crime rate is definitely decreasing. Violent crimes like murder and robbery have noticeably dropped.

The sense of safety is gradually improving as well. And returning to the AI discussion, companies are indeed filling spaces again.

If this trend continues, the atmosphere could change significantly in a few years. Right now, it feels like we've just hit rock bottom and are starting to rise.

So, to realistically conclude, if you work in tech or AI and have a sufficient income, now might not be a bad time.

It could even be an opportunity. Thanks to those who left for a while, there are more options available, and you can directly experience the city coming back to life.

On the other hand, if your budget is tight or a stable living environment is your top priority, this city is still challenging.

Good rankings do not guarantee a good life. You'll feel that immediately when you come and live here.

Ultimately, San Francisco is a city of contradictions. Right next to world-class infrastructure and technology, serious social issues coexist.

Whether this gap narrows or widens will determine the next few years.

One thing is certain: this city is in the midst of change, and being part of that change is quite an interesting experience.