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Balboa Terrace, San Francisco,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Balboa Terrace, nestled in the southeastern part of San Francisco, offers a charming blend of residential comfort and city accessibility that makes it an attractive spot for those considering a move. Known for its peaceful streets lined with well-maintained homes, the neighborhood exudes a welcoming vibe that is perfect for families, professionals, and anyone looking to enjoy a quieter slice of city life. One of the standout features of Balboa Terrace is its proximity to Balboa Park, a lovely green space that offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as jogging, picnicking, and dog walking. This neighborhood’s calm, community-oriented atmosphere provides a refreshing contrast to the hustle and bustle of downtown San Francisco.

For those relocating to Balboa Terrace, convenience is a key perk. The area boasts excellent public transportation options, including nearby BART and Muni stations that make commuting to Downtown San Francisco straightforward and efficient—typically around a 20 to 30-minute trip depending on traffic and transit choices. This accessibility allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: a serene neighborhood environment with quick and easy access to the vibrant cultural, dining, and business centers downtown. Additionally, nearby commercial corridors offer a variety of local shops, cozy cafes, and essential services, ensuring that everyday needs are easily met without having to travel far.

Balboa Terrace also benefits from its closeness to several notable attractions that enrich the lifestyle of its residents. Just a short distance away, you can explore the San Francisco Zoo, which is a great destination for family outings. The nearby Glen Park neighborhood adds more charm with its quaint village feel and popular farmers market. For those who appreciate a mix of urban and natural environments, the neighborhood's location offers quick access to hiking trails and scenic spots along the city's southeastern hills. Altogether, Balboa Terrace provides a wonderful balance of residential tranquility and urban convenience, making it a smart and appealing choice for anyone looking to settle in San Francisco.

Community Snapshot

Population 894
Density (People/sqml.) 9,485
Median Age 53.7
Married Couples
61%
61% of the population of Balboa Terrace aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
26%
26% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Balboa Terrace, 26% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 26% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Balboa Terrace neighborhood age breakdown chart

Balboa Terrace demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 894 residents, Balboa Terrace is notably smaller than many other San Francisco neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Boasting a population density of 9,485, Balboa Terrace is more densely populated than many other San Francisco neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 54, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in Balboa Terrace

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Balboa Terrace neighborhood age breakdown chart

Balboa Terrace Crime Map

The Balboa Terrace crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

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Home Price $1,721,901
Median Rent N/A
People/Household 2.6

Home Price Breakdown

Balboa Terrace neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 1% Own 99%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 71% After 2010 29%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Balboa Terrace, home prices come in around $1,721,901, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Balboa Terrace can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The average rent price is about $0, which is lower than many surrounding areas. This makes it an appealing option for renters seeking budget-friendly living without sacrificing convenience, location, or quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Dinosaurs
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Ambrosia Fine Bakery & Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Regal Stonestown Galleria
Cinema
min.
min.
CinéArts at the Empire
Cinema
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Little Original Joe's
Deli
min.
min.
The Dubliner
Bar
min.
min.

Groceries

Zanze's Cheesecake
Bakery
min.
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Ambrosia Fine Bakery & Cafe
Bakery
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Parks

Playground
Playground
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Aptos Playground
Playground
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Shops

Gracy & Mercy Beauty Salon
Hairdresser
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Eyes in Disguise
Optician
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Ocean Avenue & San Leandro Way
Transit Stop
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Ocean Avenue & San Leandro Way
Transit Stop
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Transit Stations

Junipero Serra Boulevard & Ocean Avenue
Transit Station
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Saint Francis Circle
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Golden Gate Urgent Care
Clinic
min.
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Walgreens
Pharmacy
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Health Care

Ocean Avenue Dentistry
Dentist
min.
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Cucalon Orthodontics
Dentist
min.
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Safety

San Francisco Fire Station 19
Fire Station
min.
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San Francisco Fire Station 39
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Stratford School - San Francisco
301 De Montfort Ave, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Lick-Wilmerding High School
755 Ocean Ave, San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Wen Jian Ying
259 Judson Ave, San Francisco, CA
High School 7 - 12 School Score
West Portal Lutheran School
200 Sloat Blvd, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
St Cecilia School
660 Vicente St, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
Sloat (Commodore) Elementary
50 Darien Way, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Lakeside Presbyterian Center For Children
201 Eucalyptus Dr, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School PK - KG School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Balboa Terrace combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Balboa Terrace can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $101,397
Household Income $238,588
Unemployment 3.1%

Income Breakdown

Balboa Terrace Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Balboa Terrace, median household incomes average $238,588, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Balboa Terrace, the unemployment rate sits at around 3%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

Balboa Terrace primarily features charming single-family homes and quaint duplexes, many built in the early to mid-20th century. Architectural styles such as Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Colonial are common, giving the neighborhood a distinctive, historic feel. The homes often showcase stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and lush gardens, contributing to the area's cozy and picturesque streetscape.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

While Balboa Terrace is a primarily residential neighborhood, residents often participate in broader community events in the nearby Glen Park and West Portal areas. Notable local happenings include the annual Glen Park Festival and farmers markets at the nearby Glen Park BART plaza, providing opportunities for neighbors to connect and enjoy local arts, food, and music. Additionally, the community organizes occasional block parties and neighborhood clean-up days that foster a friendly, engaged atmosphere.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, Balboa Terrace is conveniently located near major transit options. The Balboa Park BART station is just a short walk away, offering direct access to Downtown San Francisco and beyond. Additionally, several Muni Metro lines, including the K, M, and J lines, serve the area, making public transportation highly accessible. For drivers, Interstate 280 is nearby, providing a quick route south toward Silicon Valley or north into the city.

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