San Francisco and Los Angeles have been pivotal to California’s identity. Over time, their trajectories have diverged. San Francisco, once seen as a city in decline, is experiencing a renaissance, while Los Angeles faces new challenges.
A few years ago, San Francisco was synonymous with urban decay. Issues like crime, drug markets, business exits, and pessimism dominated the headlines. This negativity led to a cycle where residents lost faith, businesses hesitated, and the city spiraled downward.
In 2022, I returned to San Francisco despite warnings from friends in Los Angeles. I wanted to witness change firsthand. Today, San Francisco feels transformed. Cleaner streets, economic growth, and renewed self-confidence mark the change. The city now believes its issues are solvable.
This turnaround was not coincidental. Key leaders focused on recovery with strategic plans. Mayor Daniel Lurie prioritized economic revival and public safety. Collaboration among law enforcement heads, business leaders, labor organizations, and civic groups helped create a united front.
The Democratic establishment shifted towards practical governance. Nancy Tung, a pragmatic chair of the local Democratic County Central Committee, bridged progressive values and economic development. Supporting public safety, welcoming employers, and demanding government accountability are seen as fundamental elements for a thriving city.
This collaborative spirit is San Francisco’s advantage. The city is attracting investments and instilling confidence in entrepreneurs. Employers feel encouraged to expand locally, while residents regain belief in their city.
Ironically, Los Angeles is now experiencing sentiments similar to San Francisco’s past. Conversations are filled with resignation, bureaucracy seems immutable, and there are doubts about investment retention. Lowered expectations threaten the city’s future.
The significant change in San Francisco demonstrates the power of expectations. A city reflects its residents’ beliefs, and San Francisco has proven that positive changes can occur. It rediscovered the core function of local government: solving local issues with compassion, innovation, and safety.
Los Angeles still holds extraordinary strengths, but struggles with institutional discord. San Francisco’s lesson is one of collaboration, prioritizing progress over division, and instilling civic pride. Cities can evolve, transforming political cultures and public expectations.
As demonstrated in San Francisco’s revival, focusing on actionable goals and fostering collaboration leads to remarkable outcomes. This is a lesson for Los Angeles and other cities aiming for progress.
Alex Bastian is president and CEO of the Hotel Council of San Francisco.
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