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Forest Hill, San Francisco,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Moving to Forest Hill in San Francisco means stepping into a peaceful, residential neighborhood that beautifully blends classic charm with modern comforts. Known for its serene streets lined with lush greenery and elegant homes, Forest Hill offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for families and professionals seeking a quiet retreat from the bustle of city life. The neighborhood boasts a strong sense of community, with local events and friendly neighbors adding to the warm vibe that makes settling in here feel like coming home.

One of the standout attractions in Forest Hill is the Forest Hill Clubhouse, a historic gathering spot that hosts various social events and activities, fostering a close-knit community spirit. Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Stern Grove, a large park known for its outdoor concerts and beautiful walking trails, perfect for weekend relaxation or an active lifestyle. Additionally, the area features charming coffee shops, boutique stores, and convenient local amenities that cater to everyday needs without the hassle of city crowds.

While Forest Hill offers a tranquil living environment, it’s also conveniently located just a short drive or public transit ride northwest of Downtown San Francisco. This means residents can easily access the vibrant job market, cultural attractions, and nightlife of the city center, while retreating to the calm and comfort of their neighborhood at the end of the day. Overall, Forest Hill provides a balanced lifestyle with the best of both worlds — peaceful suburban charm and urban accessibility.

Community Snapshot

Population 3,049
Density (People/sqml.) 15,636
Median Age 51.7
Married Couples
63%
63% of the population of Forest Hill aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
21%
21% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Forest Hill, 21% 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 21% 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

Forest Hill neighborhood age breakdown chart

Forest Hill 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 3,049 residents, Forest Hill 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 15,636, Forest Hill 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 52, 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 Forest Hill

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Forest Hill neighborhood age breakdown chart

Forest Hill Crime Map

The Forest Hill crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing

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Home Price $1,673,043
Median Rent $2,797
People/Household 2.5

Home Price Breakdown

Forest Hill neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 22% Own 78%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 69% After 2010 31%

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 Forest Hill, home prices come in around $1,673,043, 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 Forest Hill 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.

With an average rent price of $2,797, rental rates in Forest Hill are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Lemonade
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Peet's Coffee
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

CinéArts at the Empire
Cinema
min.
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Théâtre du LFSF
Theatre Arts
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Foodee Burger
Fast Food
min.
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Guerra's Deli and Meats
Deli
min.
min.

Groceries

BullsHead Restaurant
Butcher
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Noe Valley Bakery
Bakery
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Parks

Playground
Playground
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Elenie for Hair
Hairdresser
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Tasana Hair Design
Hairdresser
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min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

10th Avenue & Quintara Street
Bus Stop
min.
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10th Avenue & Quintara Street
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

Forest Hill
Transit Station
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West Portal
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Laguna Honda Hospital And Rehabilitation Center
Hospital
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Walgreens
Pharmacy
min.
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Health Care

Joseph D Basso Podiatrist
Doctor
min.
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Dentist
Dentist
min.
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Safety

San Francisco Fire Station 20
Fire Station
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San Francisco Fire Station 40
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Independence High
1350 7Th Ave., San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
St Cecilia School
660 Vicente St, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
West Portal Lutheran School
200 Sloat Blvd, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
Miraloma Elementary
175 Omar Way, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Hoover (Herbert) Middle
2290 14Th Ave., San Francisco, CA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Asawa (Ruth) Sf Sch Of The Arts A Public School
555 Portola Dr., San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
West Portal Elementary
5 Lenox Way, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Forest Hill. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Forest Hill offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $106,301
Household Income $174,800
Unemployment 1.7%

Income Breakdown

Forest Hill 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 Forest Hill, median household incomes average $174,800, 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 strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Forest Hill, the unemployment rate is just 2%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

Forest Hill is known for its charming, well-maintained single-family homes, many of which feature classic Tudor and Mediterranean architectural styles. The neighborhood boasts large, lush lots with mature trees, giving it a secluded, suburban feel within the city. Many homes date back to the early 20th century, providing a historic yet elegant aesthetic that appeals to families and professionals alike.

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

Forest Hill hosts several community events that foster neighborly connections, including the annual Forest Hill Home Tour, where residents showcase their historic homes. The Forest Hill Association also organizes seasonal gatherings such as summer block parties and holiday celebrations at the nearby Forest Hill Playground and Park, which is a popular spot for families and children.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

While Forest Hill is primarily residential and secluded, it benefits from proximity to key transit options. The Forest Hill Muni Metro Station on the K, L, and M lines provides convenient access to downtown San Francisco and other neighborhoods. Additionally, the neighborhood is close to the Sunset Tunnel, which facilitates quick transit to central areas without the need for highway travel. Though no major highways cut directly through Forest Hill, nearby routes like the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge and Highway 1 are easily accessible via adjacent neighborhoods.

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