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Van Ness - Civic Center, San Francisco,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Moving to the Van Ness - Civic Center area in San Francisco offers a unique blend of cultural richness and urban convenience. This neighborhood is known for its impressive concentration of performing arts venues, including the iconic War Memorial Opera House and the thriving San Francisco Symphony. If you’re a fan of the arts, you’ll feel right at home here, with easy access to a wide array of concerts, ballets, and theater performances. The area also boasts impressive historic architecture, making every stroll an opportunity to admire classic San Francisco charm.

For those who appreciate being close to the action, Van Ness - Civic Center is wonderfully positioned just northwest of Downtown San Francisco. This proximity means you can enjoy a short commute to the city’s financial and business hubs, while also benefiting from a slightly quieter residential vibe. Public transportation is a breeze here, with multiple Muni lines and BART stations nearby, making it easy to explore other parts of the city or commute to work without the hassle of driving and parking.

Aside from its arts and transit advantages, the neighborhood offers a variety of local amenities that make everyday living comfortable and enjoyable. Civic Center Plaza is a notable green space where community events and farmers markets frequently take place, fostering a strong neighborhood spirit. Additionally, Van Ness Avenue is lined with diverse dining options, from cozy cafes to international cuisine, perfect for food lovers looking to explore new flavors without venturing far. Whether you’re a young professional, artist, or someone seeking a culturally vibrant yet conveniently located place to settle, Van Ness - Civic Center has a lot to offer.

Community Snapshot

Population 15,210
Density (People/sqml.) 36,620
Median Age 43.2
Married Couples
33%
33% of the population of Van Ness - Civic Center aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
8%
8% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 33% of the Van Ness - Civic Center population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 8% 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

Van Ness - Civic Center neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Van Ness - Civic Center demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Van Ness - Civic Center has a population of 15,210, which is larger than many other San Francisco neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Boasting a population density of 36,620, Van Ness - Civic Center 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.

With an average age of 43, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Van Ness - Civic Center

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Van Ness - Civic Center neighborhood age breakdown chart

Van Ness - Civic Center Crime Map

The Van Ness - Civic Center 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 $1,216,650
Median Rent $2,087
People/Household 1.7

Home Price Breakdown

Van Ness - Civic Center neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 84% Own 16%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 39% After 2010 61%

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 Van Ness - Civic Center, home prices come in around $1,216,650, 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 Van Ness - Civic Center 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 $2,087, rental rates in Van Ness - Civic Center 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

Peet's Coffee
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Van Ness Cafe & Gyros
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Opera Plaza Cinema
Cinema
min.
min.
War Memorial Veterans Building Herbst Theatre
Theatre Arts
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Bodega
Fast Food
min.
min.
Burger King
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

College Market
Grocery Store
min.
min.
Sam's Bakery
Bakery
min.
min.

Parks

Playground
Playground
min.
min.
Playground
Playground
min.
min.

Shops

Books Inc.
Books
min.
min.
Rosebowl Florist
Florist
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Turk Street & Van Ness Avenue
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Eddy Street & Van Ness Avenue
Bus Stop
min.
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

The Eye Institute
Clinic
min.
min.
CPMC Van Ness Campus
Hospital
min.
min.

Health Care

Pacific Plastic Surgery Group
Doctor
min.
min.
Van Ness Family Dentist
Dentist
min.
min.

Safety

San Francisco Fire Station 3
Fire Station
min.
min.
Tenderloin Police Station
Police
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
International High School
150 Oak St, San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory
1055 Ellis St, San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Jewish Community High School Of The Bay
1835 Ellis St, San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Wells (Ida B.) High
1099 Hayes St., San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Gateway High
1430 Scott St., San Francisco, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
De Marillac Academy
175 Golden Gate Ave, San Francisco, CA
Elementary School 4 - 8 School Score
Tenderloin Community
627 Turk St., 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 Van Ness - Civic Center. 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 Van Ness - Civic Center 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 $82,167
Household Income $109,555
Unemployment 4.1%

Income Breakdown

Van Ness - Civic Center 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 Van Ness - Civic Center, median household incomes average $109,555, 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 Van Ness - Civic Center, the unemployment rate sits at around 4%, 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 are some of the highlights?

Van Ness - Civic Center is renowned for its rich cultural institutions and vibrant arts scene. Key highlights include the San Francisco Opera House, the San Francisco Symphony, and the War Memorial Veterans Building. The neighborhood also boasts beautiful public spaces like Civic Center Plaza, which often hosts outdoor events and farmers markets.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, the neighborhood is home to several significant landmarks such as the San Francisco City Hall, an iconic Beaux-Arts building with a stunning dome, and the Asian Art Museum, which houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian art in the world. The nearby Bill Graham Civic Auditorium is also a historic venue known for concerts and events.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Van Ness Avenue itself is a major thoroughfare, serving as a key artery for buses and connecting to U.S. Route 101. The neighborhood is well-served by public transit, including multiple Muni bus lines and the Van Ness Muni Metro station, providing convenient access to other parts of San Francisco. Additionally, BART stations like Civic Center/UN Plaza are just a short walk away, linking residents to the greater Bay Area.

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