San Francisco means many things to many people. However, what stereotypes or images about our fair city actually ring true? Not everyone will agree on what exactly a true San Francisco stereotype looks like, but there are certain aspects of life here that are undoubtedly true, no matter who you are. Be sure to read them all, because we’ll want to hear the input of true San Francisco dwellers about these rumors. Without further ado, here are 9 amusing stereotypes about San Francisco residents that are totally true.

1. We are always a ready to throw a street party and parade.
Kanaka Rastamon/Flickr
We really know how to party in San Francisco — just check out all of the festivals and parades held in our relatively small city and you'll be amazed. The number of street celebrations and parties here more than prove the reputation. This may be a stereotype but it's not such a bad one. Who wouldn't want to spend half the calendar year partying in the street with thousands of your closest friends?
2. We love brunch.
RuthandDave/Flickr
Yes, it is very true, especially today. More and more people will wait in line for two hours just for some eggs, drinks, and expensive toast! But we don't blame them — brunch is amazing! Since brunch has become so popular the city has become dotted with hip restaurants serving up eggs in innovative and Instagrammable new ways.
3. We are wacky and random.
Thomas Hawk / Flickr
San Franciscans pride themselves on being open, mindful, and tolerant. However, to the outsider, this extreme openness may be seen as odd. This is one San Francisco stereotype that is absolutely true. But hey, we love living with the freedom to do as we please without judgement. All are welcome here.
4. We are overwhelmingly a liberal city.
Donkeyhotey/Flickr
In fact, San Francisco is the most liberal major city in the USA. A study in 2015 found that San Francisco is the land of progressive dreams, or nightmares, depending on your political beliefs.
5. We enjoy wine.
LollyKnit/Flickr
San Francisco is one of the best cities in the world to drink wine. Our proximity to Napa Valley and our passion for wine is unmatched in the USA. Craft cocktails may have swept the scene in other cities but wine will always be a mainstay here in San Fran.
6. We are dog crazy.
BokaMokaCoka/Flickr
Dogs are important for many Americans, but in San Francisco we more than adore dogs. San Francisco has more dogs than children. According to the Census and Animal Care and Control Department data, San Francisco has around 10,000 more dogs than children. We guess a lot of San Fran residents have opted to have fur babies rather than the real thing!
7. Protests or marches are common.
Seanhoyer/Flickr
Historians claim San Francisco, especially Haight Ashbury, as the birthplace of the hippie movement, so protests and people power is important here. The stereotype of San Franciscans protesting is still valid. If you name a cause, there is a good chance there was a protest in SF. It's wonderful to be in a city full of people who are willing to fight for what they believe in. No injustice will get past this crowd.
8. We are technology obsessed.
Shawn Collins / Flickr
The Bay area, in general, is quite technology forward and addicted. Tech jobs make up almost a quarter of the total workforce in the Bay Area. It's more than likely you'll find yourself at a party chatting with someone who works at Google, Amazon, or Facebook. Just don't ask them what their screen time numbers are.
9. We have a love of bikes.
Tommy.Chheng/Flickr
There are some claims that up to almost 20 percent of San Franciscans ride their bike two or more days a week. In addition to being a sustainable way to get around the city, riding your bike affords you stunning views of the natural landscape, like the one you see here.
10. We recycle everything.
CBcastro/Flickr
San Franciscans are usually more concerned and particular about recycling, composting, and reusing. We are quite detail oriented and serious people about sorting waste here, so beware! The environment is one of many causes taken up by San Francisco dwellers, and it's an important one. We don't mess around about saving the earth.

What do you think? Do these stereotypes ring true? Most of them are pretty flattering so we’ll take them, but we want to hear your opinion too. Let us know in the comments below. Share this post! If you’re into outdoor adventures in the city, check out this unique stairway in San Francisco.

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San Francisco Stereotypes

CC | December 28, 2022

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