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St. Francis Wood, San Francisco,CA

Neighborhood Data
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If you’re considering a move to the northwest part of San Francisco, St. Francis Wood is a neighborhood that truly stands out for its charm and tranquility. Known for its beautifully maintained, tree-lined streets and distinctive early 20th-century architecture, this area offers a peaceful residential vibe that feels like a breath of fresh air compared to the city’s bustling core. The neighborhood’s spacious homes, many with classic Mediterranean and Tudor Revival designs, provide a unique blend of elegance and comfort, making it an attractive choice for families and professionals seeking a serene retreat without straying too far from urban amenities.

One of the standout features of St. Francis Wood is its strong sense of community and easy access to green spaces. The neighborhood is dotted with lovely parks and gardens where residents enjoy outdoor activities and social gatherings. Nearby, the scenic Stern Grove hosts popular summer concerts, offering a perfect blend of nature and culture just minutes away. For those who appreciate local shopping and dining, nearby areas like West Portal Avenue provide charming boutiques, cafes, and restaurants that cater to a relaxed, neighborhood vibe. Whether you’re grabbing a morning coffee or enjoying a weekend brunch, the options here strike a nice balance between convenience and comfort.

Despite its peaceful atmosphere, St. Francis Wood is remarkably close to Downtown San Francisco, with a commute typically under 20 minutes by car or public transit. This proximity allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: the calm and spaciousness of a suburban feel paired with quick access to the city’s vibrant job market, cultural attractions, and entertainment venues. For anyone relocating to the city and looking to escape the hustle without losing touch with urban life, St. Francis Wood is a fantastic neighborhood that offers a welcoming community, beautiful surroundings, and excellent connectivity to the heart of San Francisco.

Community Snapshot

Population 2,112
Density (People/sqml.) 10,040
Median Age 48.8
Married Couples
62%
62% of the population of St. Francis Wood aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
22%
22% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In St. Francis Wood, 22% 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 22% 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

St. Francis Wood neighborhood age breakdown chart

St. Francis Wood 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 2,112 residents, St. Francis Wood 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 10,040, St. Francis Wood 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 49, 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 St. Francis Wood

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

St. Francis Wood neighborhood age breakdown chart

St. Francis Wood Crime Map

The St. Francis Wood 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 $1,838,434
Median Rent $2,340
People/Household 2.7

Home Price Breakdown

St. Francis Wood neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 13% Own 87%

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 St. Francis Wood, home prices come in around $1,838,434, 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 St. Francis Wood 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 $2,340, rental rates in St. Francis Wood 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

Greenhouse
Coffee Shop
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Cafe Rain Tree
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

CinéArts at the Empire
Cinema
min.
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Rhoda Goldman Concert Meadow
Theatre Arts
min.
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Food & Drink

Portal's Tavern
Bar
min.
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Que Syrah, A Wine Bar
Bar
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Groceries

West Portal Produce Market
Grocery Store
min.
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Noe Valley Bakery
Bakery
min.
min.

Parks

Terrace Green Park
Park
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Terrace Green Park Playground
Playground
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Shops

Zen Beauty Spa
Beauty
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Americuts
Hairdresser
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Santa Clara Avenue & Saint Francis Boulevard
Bus Stop
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Saint Francis Boulevard & Santa Clara Avenue
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

Saint Francis Circle
Transit Station
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West Portal
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Golden Gate Urgent Care
Clinic
min.
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Walgreens
Pharmacy
min.
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Health Care

West Portal Dental Building
Dentist
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West Portal Dental Care
Dentist
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Safety

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

Name Category Grades Rating
Hoover (Herbert) Middle
2290 14Th Ave., San Francisco, CA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
West Portal Elementary
5 Lenox Way, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Lowell High
1101 Eucalyptus Dr., San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Academy (The)- Sf @Mcateer
555 Portola Dr., San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 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
Aptos Middle
105 Aptos Ave., San Francisco, CA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in St. Francis Wood 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 St. Francis Wood 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 $140,511
Household Income $225,407
Unemployment 2.1%

Income Breakdown

St. Francis Wood 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 St. Francis Wood, median household incomes average $225,407, 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 St. Francis Wood, 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?

St. Francis Wood is renowned for its elegant, early 20th-century homes, primarily featuring Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival architectural styles. The neighborhood is characterized by large, single-family residences with well-manicured lawns and tree-lined streets. Many homes boast classic details like stucco facades, red tile roofs, and spacious layouts, reflecting the neighborhood’s origins as a planned garden community.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, St. Francis Wood is a designated San Francisco Historic District, known for its cohesive architectural style and planned design. One notable landmark is the original street layout and landscaping designed by landscape architect Mark Daniels in the early 1900s. While the neighborhood itself serves as a living historical site, nearby attractions include the beautiful Sigmund Stern Recreation Grove and the Forest Hill neighborhood, which also reflect the city’s early suburban development.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

While St. Francis Wood is a primarily residential neighborhood designed for quiet living, it is conveniently located near major transit routes. The neighborhood is close to the Junipero Serra Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard, providing access to Highway 280 for commuters. Public transit options include several Muni bus lines, such as the 43-Masonic, which connect residents to downtown San Francisco and other parts of the city, though the area is more car-dependent compared to neighborhoods closer to the city center.

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