Ask HN: Does it make sense to be in SF if you are bootstrapped?

by kingkhalid on 5/28/2025, 9:39:03 PM with 3 comments
I'm a founder currently based in Europe, considering a move to San Francisco. I've been building my startup without outside funding and plan to keep bootstrapping for as long as possible.

From the outside, SF seems heavily geared toward VC-backed startups. That makes me wonder: does it actually make sense to base yourself there if you're bootstrapping and not looking to raise anytime soon?

Curious to hear people's thoughts.

  • by robocat on 5/28/2025, 10:15:58 PM

    I just read a rather cynical article using SF party scene as the article seed. The article could help you decide if you'd find moving helpful, because it talks about the vibe of the people in SF, but it is only one take so perhaps don't overweight the opinions given.

    https://theahura.substack.com/p/notes-from-the-sf-party-scen...

    Edit: I think it would be an expensive distraction for your time. Good founders focus on building their business, and avoid time wasting activities.

  • by apothegm on 5/29/2025, 1:30:34 AM

    What are your reasons for considering a move at all? What would you expect to get out of moving to SF?

  • by someoneontenet on 5/28/2025, 10:02:54 PM

    Come visit for a few weeks and see if it’s right for you :)