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Monterey Heights, San Francisco,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Monterey Heights is a charming and welcoming neighborhood nestled in the southeast part of San Francisco. Known for its quiet residential streets and a strong sense of community, this area offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Residents often enjoy the neighborhood’s well-maintained parks and green spaces, perfect for weekend walks or family outings. One of the standout attractions in Monterey Heights is the Glen Canyon Park, a beautiful natural area featuring hiking trails, picnic spots, and stunning views of the city’s rolling hills. This makes it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate nature right at their doorstep.

For anyone moving to Monterey Heights, convenience is a major plus. The neighborhood is just a short drive or bus ride away from Downtown San Francisco, making it easy for commuters to access the financial district, theaters, restaurants, and other downtown amenities in under 20 minutes. This proximity allows residents to enjoy the quieter suburban feel of Monterey Heights while still being close enough to the vibrant city center for work or entertainment. Additionally, the neighborhood has a variety of local cafes, shops, and community centers, fostering a friendly and connected atmosphere.

Families and professionals alike will appreciate the excellent schools and community resources available in Monterey Heights. The area boasts several reputable public and private schools, along with plenty of family-friendly activities. Local events, farmers' markets, and neighborhood gatherings help new residents feel right at home quickly. Whether you’re a young professional looking for a peaceful place to recharge or a family in search of a safe and nurturing environment, Monterey Heights offers a fantastic blend of urban convenience and suburban comfort that makes relocating here a truly rewarding experience.

Community Snapshot

Population 1,059
Density (People/sqml.) 12,653
Median Age 45.9
Married Couples
58%
58% of the population of Monterey Heights aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
23%
23% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Monterey Heights, 23% 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 23% 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

Monterey Heights neighborhood age breakdown chart

Monterey Heights 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 1,059 residents, Monterey Heights 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 12,653, Monterey Heights 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 46, 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 Monterey Heights

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Monterey Heights neighborhood age breakdown chart

Monterey Heights Crime Map

The Monterey Heights 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 $1,841,467
Median Rent $2,604
People/Household 3.1

Home Price Breakdown

Monterey Heights neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 13% Own 87%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 67% After 2010 33%

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 Monterey Heights, home prices come in around $1,841,467, 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 Monterey Heights 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 $2,604, rental rates in Monterey Heights 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

Java on Ocean
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Java on Ocean Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

CinéArts at the Empire
Cinema
min.
min.
Ingleside Gallery
Art Gallery
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Portal's Tavern
Bar
min.
min.
A-1 Bakery
Sweets
min.
min.

Groceries

Zanze's Cheesecake
Bakery
min.
min.
West Portal Produce Market
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Terrace Green Park Playground
Playground
min.
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Terrace Green Park
Park
min.
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Shops

7-Eleven
Convenience Store
min.
min.
Gracy & Mercy Beauty Salon
Hairdresser
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Yerba Buena Avenue & Brentwood Avenue
Bus Stop
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Yerba Buena Avenue & Brentwood Avenue
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Golden Gate Urgent Care
Clinic
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Walgreens
Pharmacy
min.
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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 39
Fire Station
min.
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San Francisco Fire Station 15
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Sunnyside Elementary
250 Foerster St., San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Mercy High School, San Francisco
3250 19Th Ave, San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
West Portal Elementary
5 Lenox Way, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Asawa (Ruth) Sf Sch Of The Arts A Public School
555 Portola Dr., San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Lick-Wilmerding High School
755 Ocean Ave, San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
San Francisco Waldorf High School
470 W Portal Ave, San Francisco, CA
High School PK - 12 School Score
Stratford School - San Francisco
301 De Montfort Ave, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Monterey Heights 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 Monterey Heights 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 $138,524
Household Income $224,831
Unemployment 3.0%

Income Breakdown

Monterey Heights 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 Monterey Heights, median household incomes average $224,831, 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 Monterey Heights, the unemployment rate is just 3%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Monterey Heights benefits from convenient access to several major transit options. The neighborhood is near the I-280 freeway, providing quick routes to Downtown San Francisco and the Peninsula. Additionally, the nearby Balboa Park BART station offers reliable rapid transit service connecting residents to key areas across the city and the greater Bay Area. Several Muni bus lines, including the 29-Sunset and 54-Felton, also serve the area, making public transit a practical option for commuting and exploring.

What is the overall lifestyle like?

The lifestyle in Monterey Heights is a blend of urban convenience and residential tranquility. Residents enjoy a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with access to green spaces like the nearby Glen Canyon Park, which offers hiking trails and picnic areas. The neighborhood features a mix of local cafes and small shops, fostering a community-oriented feel while still being close to the vibrant cultural and dining scenes of nearby neighborhoods like the Sunset District and Glen Park. It's ideal for those seeking a peaceful home base with easy access to city amenities.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

While Monterey Heights itself is primarily residential and does not host major landmarks, it is located close to several notable sites in San Francisco. Glen Canyon Park is a significant natural landmark nearby, providing scenic hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. Additionally, the neighborhood is just a short drive from the historic Balboa Theatre in the Balboa Park area, which hosts performances and community events. For history enthusiasts, the nearby Ingleside Terraces district features early 20th-century architecture and planned garden suburb designs reflecting San Francisco’s development history.

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