San Francisco, known for its sleek skyscrapers, bustling streets, iconic structures, groovy past, and freewheeling spirit, is a popular destination to reside. The natural beauty and cultural heritage of the City by the Bay entice both citizens and visitors, so it’s time to head to San Francisco’s most costly neighborhoods and live the life of your dreams. Despite being one of the most expensive cities in California, San Francisco is well worth the hype.
1. Presidio Heights
- Median home price: $4,948,331
Presidio Heights has the most expensive single-family houses, including the historic Tudor-inspired Roos House, completed in 1909. You may appreciate the old houses and magnificent homes as you drive through the streets. The neighboring Presidio, a 1,500-acre urban oasis, offers children’s activities, family-friendly events, nature and science attractions, picnic spots, recreational options, and exhibitions.
Presidio Heights residents may also have a pleasant shopping experience on Clement Street, where they can choose from a variety of beautiful restaurants, like Garibaldis Restaurant and Sociale. The neighborhood has everything to suit every mood. Presidio Heights is an excellent choice for families because of its numerous activities and tranquil atmosphere.
2. Haight-Ashbury’s
- Median property price: $2,700,000
The Haight-Ashbury district in San Francisco is not just one of the city’s most affluent neighborhoods, but it also has a rich cultural heritage. This area, named after Henry Haight, a pioneer and exchange banker, and Munroe Ashbury, a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, was central to the 1960s hippie countercultural movement. Initially an affordable neighborhood, Haight-Ashbury quickly became the epicenter of the hippie movement, famed for its laid-back and free-spirited vibe.
Today, Haight-Ashbury attracts a varied range of residents and features a variety of high-end vintage apparel stores, sophisticated eateries, and unique boutiques. The intersection of Haight and Ashbury streets is a historical landmark. The Doolan-Larson Building, which originally housed Mnasidika, one of the city’s earliest hippie boutiques, was frequented by celebrities such as Janis Joplin and is said to have been a shopping location for Jimi Hendrix.
Local landmarks such as The Red Victorian and the Martens & Coffey-designed Beaux-Arts Stanyan Park Hotel provide a look into the area’s illustrious past. Residents and visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the city by visiting Buena Vista Park, one of San Francisco’s oldest parks.
3. Marina District’s
- Median home price: $2,402,845
The Marina District is San Francisco’s fourth-most expensive district. This location is adjacent to the Golden Gate Bridge, Crissy Field, Pier 39, and other popular free attractions in San Francisco. Another popular attraction in the Marina is the Palace of Fine Arts, a magnificent, neoclassical Roman rotunda set by a calm lagoon. The eucalyptus trees, Corinthian pillars, and snow-white swans set an amazing Renaissance picture.
Styleful boutiques, delectable bakeries, and a variety of restaurants can also be found nestled among the Victorian-style blocks. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the neighborhood’s closeness to large open spaces like the Presidio, Marina Green, and Crissy Field East Beach.
4. PACIFIC HEIGHTS
- Median home price: $2,014,414.
Since 2013, Pacific Heights has been one of the most expensive neighborhoods in San Francisco. This upscale residential enclave is renowned for its record-breaking prices and ultra-wealthy residents, making it a distinguished location. With close access to Lafayette and Alta Plaza Parks, magnificent views of the Marin Headlands, Golden Gate Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, Alcatraz, and the Presidio, and elegant architecture, the residences here will make you happy. Pacific Heights also shows a variety of architectural styles, including Neo-Baroque, California Mission Revival, Queen Anne, and French Renaissance Revival Château residences that line the sidewalks.
Pacific Heights also has the famed Painted Ladies architecture, which consists of a stretch of magnificent Victorian and Edwardian-style homes. This neighborhood also offers excellent schools, including San Francisco University High School and San Francisco Waldorf School. For residents looking to shop, Fillmore Street has you covered. This boulevard, which is home to Ralph Lauren, Prada, and Athleta, is an excellent area to spend the day shopping. In the evening, visit the upmarket Atelier Crenn for Michelin-starred French food, DOSA on Fillmore for traditional South Indian cuisine, or Fresca Fillmore for imaginative Peruvian ceviche dishes.
5. NOB HILL
- Median home price: $1,544,584.
Another upscale San Francisco area is Nob Hill, which is culturally diverse. Nob Hill, one of San Francisco’s original “Seven Hills,” remains one of the highest-income areas in the country; the real estate market long ago established Nob Hill as one of the most coveted and expensive neighborhoods in the United States. The region, like other upscale areas in San Francisco, features elegant hotels (such the Fairmont San Francisco and Huntington Hotel), historic mansions, and an astounding number of Michelin-starred restaurants, including KEIKO à Nob Hill and Sons & Daughters.