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Telegraph Hill, San Francisco,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Telegraph Hill is one of San Francisco’s most charming and picturesque neighborhoods, perfect for those looking to enjoy a blend of history, stunning views, and a tight-knit community vibe. Known for its iconic Coit Tower that sits atop the hill, the area offers panoramic views of the city skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the sparkling waters of the San Francisco Bay. Residents and visitors alike often enjoy leisurely strolls through Pioneer Park surrounding the tower, where you can spot beautiful murals and native plants. The winding streets are lined with quaint cafes, boutiques, and cozy restaurants, making it an inviting spot for newcomers who want to immerse themselves in a neighborhood that feels both vibrant and serene.

If you’re considering moving to Telegraph Hill, you’ll appreciate how close it is to Downtown San Francisco, just a short drive or a quick ride on public transit away. This proximity means you can easily access the bustling financial district, world-class shopping, and entertainment venues without sacrificing the charm and calmness that Telegraph Hill offers. The neighborhood's walkability is another huge plus—whether you’re heading to the famous Pier 39, exploring North Beach’s Italian eateries and bookstores, or catching a ferry to Alcatraz, everything is within easy reach. This makes it an ideal location for those who want the best of city living with a bit of a peaceful retreat.

One standout feature of Telegraph Hill is its famous wild parrot population, which has become a beloved local attraction. Watching flocks of colorful parrots swoop through the streets adds a unique, whimsical touch to daily life here. Additionally, the neighborhood’s historic architecture, from classic Victorian homes to charming staircases like the Filbert Steps, provides plenty of character and photo-worthy moments. For families and individuals alike, the sense of community is strong, with local events, farmers markets, and nearby parks for outdoor activities. All in all, Telegraph Hill is a wonderful choice for anyone relocating to the northwest part of San Francisco who values beauty, convenience, and a welcoming neighborhood spirit.

Community Snapshot

Population 6,819
Density (People/sqml.) 21,676
Median Age 45.5
Married Couples
43%
43% of the population of Telegraph Hill aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
10%
10% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

10% of the Telegraph Hill population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 10% 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

Telegraph Hill neighborhood age breakdown chart

Telegraph Hill demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 6,819, the number of residents who reside in Telegraph Hill is about average in size compared to other San Francisco neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Boasting a population density of 21,676, Telegraph 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 45, 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 Telegraph Hill

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Types of Crime

Telegraph Hill neighborhood age breakdown chart

Telegraph Hill Crime Map

The Telegraph 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 $1,592,222
Median Rent $2,015
People/Household 1.8

Home Price Breakdown

Telegraph Hill neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 79% Own 21%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 51% After 2010 49%

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 Telegraph Hill, home prices come in around $1,592,222, 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 Telegraph 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 $2,015, rental rates in Telegraph 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

Coit Tower Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
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Cafe Jaqueline
Coffee Shop
min.
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Entertainment

Filbert Steps
Attraction
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Filbert Steps
Attraction
min.
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Food & Drink

Savoy Tivoli
Bar
min.
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Tope
Bar
min.
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Groceries

Liguria Bakery
Bakery
min.
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Stella Pastry
Bakery
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Parks

Pioneer Park
Park
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Washington Square Park
Park
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Shops

Aria's Antiques
Gift Shop
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Telegraph Hill Books
Books
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

115 Telegraph Hill Boulevard
Bus Stop
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Telegraph Hill Boulevard & Filbert Street
Bus Stop
min.
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

North East Medical Services (NEMS)
Clinic
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Walgreens
Pharmacy
min.
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Health Care

North East Medical Services
Doctor
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Comprehensive Dental Care
Dentist
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Safety

San Francisco Fire Station 28
Fire Station
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Central Police Station
Police
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Parker (Jean) Elementary
840 Brd.Way St., San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Stockton (Commodore) Children Center
949 Washington St., San Francisco, CA
Elementary School M - M School Score
Francisco Middle
2190 Powell St., San Francisco, CA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Chinese Education Center
657 Merchant St., San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Cooper (Sarah B.) Children Center
940 Filbert St., San Francisco, CA
Elementary School M - M School Score
Garfield Elementary
420 Filbert St., San Francisco, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Galileo High
1150 Francisco St., San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Telegraph Hill 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 Telegraph Hill 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 $93,120
Household Income $125,552
Unemployment 7.1%

Income Breakdown

Telegraph 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 Telegraph Hill, median household incomes average $125,552, 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 can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Telegraph Hill, the unemployment rate is 7%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like?

The lifestyle in Telegraph Hill is a blend of historic charm and urban convenience. Residents enjoy scenic views of the San Francisco Bay, a close-knit community vibe, and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking up the Filbert Steps or exploring Pioneer Park. The neighborhood offers a quieter residential atmosphere compared to downtown, with many people valuing the peaceful streets and iconic architecture, including classic Victorian and Edwardian homes.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Telegraph Hill is famous for the Coit Tower, a historic landmark offering panoramic views of the city and bay. Built in 1933, Coit Tower also features beautiful murals inside that depict California life during the Great Depression. Another historical site is the Filbert Steps, a picturesque stairway lined with lush gardens and private homes, connecting the waterfront to the top of the hill. These landmarks are integral to the neighborhood’s identity and attract both tourists and locals alike.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Telegraph Hill is conveniently located near several major transit options. While there are no highways running directly through the neighborhood, residents have easy access to Embarcadero and the Bay Bridge via nearby streets. Public transit options include several Muni bus lines, and the historic F-Market streetcar line runs along the Embarcadero just east of Telegraph Hill, providing direct access to Fisherman’s Wharf and downtown San Francisco. This makes commuting and exploring the city quite convenient for residents.

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