In fact, until the 1960s the area was predominantly populated with white, working-class, Irish immigrants. The emergence of the Castro district is much more modern than most people assume it to be. Its openness and inclusiveness are thought to date back to the 19th Century and the period of the Gold Rush. It’s fair to say that while San Francisco was becoming a beacon of hope for gay men and women around the world – the policy of the United States government and its treatment of LGBT citizens (particularly the stigma surrounding the HIV/AIDS crisis) was everything but supportive and welcoming to the community.
San Francisco has long been synonymous with the gay community and the LGBT movement at large. Though it may be the most expensive city to live in in the US, it’s certainly at least worth a visit – though surely, you’ll want to stay! Nowadays, its gay population per capita is one of the highest in the world. Filled with queer history, free-spirited vibes and currently one of the top tech hotspots in the country, it welcomes a mix of travelers and dwellers that help create its diverse, come-as-you-are, laidback attitude. San Francisco is an iconic city for the queer community as a pioneer and battleground for LGBT rights.
