11/24/2024

A personal reflection on why I've decided to return to San Francisco, exploring the intersection of career growth, lifestyle, and happiness in the tech industry's epicenter

Written by: Jonathan Haas

It’s become almost a cliché at this point: leaving San Francisco, writing a lengthy Medium post about why you’re done with the Bay Area, only to find yourself drawn back to the city by the bay a few years later. Well, here I am, becoming that very cliché – and I couldn’t be more excited about it.

The Gravity of Innovation

There’s something magnetic about San Francisco that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. Despite the rise of remote work and the emergence of new tech hubs, the Bay Area remains the epicenter of technological innovation. The “magic” happens here – not just in the offices of tech giants and startups, but in the coffee shops where founders sketch out their next big ideas, in the meetups where developers debate the latest frameworks, and in the chance encounters that spark unexpected collaborations.

Being physically present in this ecosystem isn’t just about career opportunities; it’s about being part of a community that’s shaping the future. The serendipitous conversations, the impromptu brainstorming sessions, the energy of being surrounded by people who are building and dreaming big – these are the intangibles that no Zoom call can fully replicate.

The Financial Equation

Let’s address the elephant in the room: San Francisco is expensive. Brutally expensive. But here’s the thing – as I’ve progressed in my career and joined a larger startup, the financial equation has shifted. The salary calculations that seemed daunting a few years ago now make sense. Yes, I’ll be paying more for housing, but I’m at a point where I can absorb those costs without compromising my quality of life.

The city’s cost of living is still eye-watering, but I’ve come to view it as an investment in my career and personal growth rather than just an expense. The opportunities, networks, and experiences that come with being here often translate into long-term career advantages that outweigh the immediate financial impact.

The Happiness Factor

Perhaps the most compelling reason for my return is the simplest: I’m happier in California. The financial sacrifices I make to live here pale in comparison to the sacrifices to my wellbeing when I’m away. There’s something about the California lifestyle – the blend of urban energy and natural beauty, the progressive mindset, the food scene, the ability to drive an hour and be in any environment from beaches to mountains – that just fits.

I’ve tried to replicate this elsewhere, but there’s no substitute for waking up to that particular quality of California sunlight, or ending your workday with a run along the Embarcadero, or spending weekends exploring the endless variety of experiences the Bay Area offers.

Looking Forward

As I plan my return in 2025, I’m under no illusions – San Francisco isn’t perfect. The city faces real challenges, from housing affordability to social issues. But I’m coming back with open eyes and a deeper appreciation for what makes this place special.

Sometimes you have to leave a place to truly understand its value in your life. My time away from San Francisco has helped me appreciate both what I missed and what I needed to change about my relationship with the city. I’m returning not because it’s the obvious choice or the easy choice, but because it’s the right choice for me.

And yes, I’m aware I’m fulfilling that classic San Francisco departure-and-return narrative. But maybe that cliché exists for a reason. Sometimes the story everyone tells is the story that’s true.

See you soon, San Francisco.