EMF Exposure in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco ranks #2 of 4 California cities for EMF exposure. Lower score = less exposure.
With an EMF score of 82 out of 100, this major metropolitan area shows high electromagnetic field exposure levels, ranking second among the four California cities analyzed. San Francisco's dense urban environment contains 2,939 total cell towers, including 490 5G installations, resulting in a tower density of 62.7 per square mile. EMF exposure levels vary significantly across the city's neighborhoods, with scores ranging from 0 to 100 depending on proximity to telecommunications infrastructure.
Tower Map
Showing 2939 towers within 5 miles of San Francisco city center.
Other Cities in California
Lowest EMF exposure cities in California. Lower score = less exposure.
Cities with Similar Scores
Other US cities with EMF scores within 10 points of San Francisco.
San Francisco's EMF exposure score of 82 is notably high, placing it just below the California average of 83 and significantly above the national median of 45. Within California, San Francisco ranks as the second-highest among major cities, with only Los Angeles (99) and San Jose (91) having higher exposure levels, while San Diego offers a more moderate alternative at 59. For those prioritizing lower EMF exposure when choosing where to live in California, San Diego would be the preferable option among these major metropolitan areas.
EMF Exposure & Health
EMF exposure remains an active area of scientific research. While regulatory bodies maintain that current exposure limits are safe, independent research has raised questions that lead many to take precautionary steps.
What research shows
We provide data, not medical advice. Consult healthcare professionals for personal health decisions.
What You Can Do
Check Your Specific Address
City averages only tell part of the story. Your building's exposure depends on exact tower proximity, building materials, and which direction you face.
Enter Your AddressIf You're House Hunting
Before buying or renting in San Francisco, check the EMF score of specific addresses you're considering. Compare neighborhoods to find lower-exposure areas.
- Search each property address on our map
- Note which direction bedrooms face relative to towers
- Consider upper vs lower floors (height affects exposure)
Quick Wins (Free)
Simple changes you can make today to reduce your daily EMF exposure without spending money.
- Move WiFi router out of bedrooms and living areas
- Use airplane mode on phone while sleeping
- Use speakerphone or wired earbuds for calls
- Turn off WiFi at night (use a timer outlet)
- Keep phone out of pockets when possible
For San Francisco specifically:
Bigger Investments
For those wanting more comprehensive protection, especially in high-exposure areas.
- EMF shielding film for windows facing towers
- Shielding paint for walls on tower-facing sides
- Shielded bed canopy for sleeping area
- Professional EMF assessment of your home
- Wired ethernet instead of WiFi