Hayes Street
Description
The City’s Boutique Trailblazer
This vibrant Hayes Valley corridor is a launchpad for brands looking to establish a foothold in the city, thanks to the area's formula retail restrictions that prohibit chains with more than 11 global locations. The result is a tightly woven and curated mix of cutting-edge boutiques and first-to-market retailers, creating an environment that feels distinctly local yet cosmopolitan. With names like Todd Snyder, Warby Parker, Buck Mason, and Marine Layer calling Hayes Street home, this high street beats with a pulse of contemporary fashion and lifestyle retail.
The Hayes Street Experience
The stretch between Gough and Laguna Streets, in particular, is a moder
Local Expert Analysis
Retail Leasing and Market Dynamics
Hayes Street is among San Francisco’s most competitive retail markets, with gross rents ranging from $100 to $150 per square foot. Vacancy rates remain below 5%. Its formula retail restrictions not only limit the presence of large chains but also cultivates a one-of-a-kind retail landscape that prioritizes boutique operators and independent brands. This exclusivity makes Hayes Street a destination for brands looking to get their first San Francisco location. Leasing activity is robust, with the 400 and 500 blocks being especially coveted for their high visibility and proximity to anchor tenants like Allbirds and Aviator Nation.
Customer Demographics and F
New Developments
The boutique-focused Hayes Street, coupled with its prime location near cultural landmarks, positions it as one of San Francisco’s most iconic high streets – recent openings reinforcing its status as a launchpad for top-tier brands, and its formula retail restrictions maintain its unique character.