St Francis Wood

Exclusive, historic San Francisco neighborhood known for grand detached homes, winding streets, and a private, estate-like setting within the city.

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Located in southwest San Francisco near West Portal and Forest Hill, St. Francis Wood is one of the city’s most prestigious and architecturally distinctive residential enclaves. Developed in the early 20th century as a planned neighborhood, it features broad boulevards, landscaped medians, and large lots that feel more like a private suburb than an urban neighborhood. Its quiet atmosphere, strict architectural guidelines, and strong sense of community make St. Francis Wood a top choice for buyers seeking privacy, space, and timeless elegance.

 

Luxuruous & Serene

Homes in St. Francis Wood are primarily large, detached single-family residences, many showcasing Tudor Revival, Mediterranean, and English cottage architecture. Properties often feature expansive floor plans, formal living and dining rooms, landscaped gardens, and garages — amenities that are increasingly rare in San Francisco. The neighborhood’s deed restrictions and homeowner association help preserve architectural integrity and long-term property values, contributing to consistently strong buyer demand.

In addition to its housing appeal, St. Francis Wood offers excellent connectivity without sacrificing tranquility. Residents enjoy easy access to West Portal Village, Muni Metro lines, and Highway 280, providing convenient commutes to Downtown San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and the Peninsula. Nearby parks, golf courses, and respected public and private schools further enhance the neighborhood’s appeal for families and long-term homeowners seeking stability and quality of life.

What To Love About Saint Francis Wood

  • Primarily large, detached single-family homes with estate-style layouts
    St. Francis Wood is known almost exclusively for detached single-family residences, many offering expansive square footage, formal living and dining rooms, private gardens, and garages — a rare combination within San Francisco city limits.

  • Strict architectural guidelines and homeowner association oversight
    The neighborhood is governed by an active HOA that enforces architectural standards and design controls, preserving the historic character, uniform streetscape, and long-term property values that attract luxury buyers to St. Francis Wood.

  • Exceptionally low housing inventory and strong long-term appreciation
    With very few homes available at any given time, St. Francis Wood real estate remains highly competitive, helping support consistent price appreciation and long-term value retention even during shifting market conditions.

  • Quiet, private, and residential streets with minimal through traffic
    Designed as a planned community, St. Francis Wood features winding roads, landscaped medians, and limited commercial activity, creating a peaceful, secluded environment that feels distinctly separate from denser San Francisco neighborhoods.

  • Convenient access to West Portal, transit, and major commuter routes
    Despite its private setting, St. Francis Wood offers easy access to West Portal Village, Muni Metro lines, Highway 280, and nearby schools and parks, making it ideal for buyers seeking both luxury living and everyday convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes. St. Francis Wood is considered one of the most family-friendly neighborhoods in San Francisco, thanks to its quiet streets, large single-family homes, limited through traffic, and proximity to parks, schools, and West Portal amenities. Many buyers are long-term homeowners, which contributes to a strong sense of community and stability.

  • Yes. St. Francis Wood has an active homeowners association that enforces architectural guidelines and deed restrictions. These rules help preserve the neighborhood’s historic character, consistent streetscape, and long-term property values. Buyers should review HOA guidelines carefully before planning major exterior renovations or additions.

  • The neighborhood is made up almost entirely of large, detached single-family homes, many built in Tudor Revival, Mediterranean, and English cottage styles. Homes often feature spacious floor plans, formal living areas, landscaped gardens, and garages — amenities that are increasingly rare elsewhere in San Francisco.

  • The St. Francis Wood housing market is highly competitive due to extremely limited inventory. Homes do not come up for sale often, and well-priced properties frequently attract strong interest. Buyers should be prepared with financing in place and a strategic offer approach when opportunities arise.

  • Home prices in St. Francis Wood generally fall into the upper luxury tier of San Francisco real estate, with values reflecting large lot sizes, architectural significance, and neighborhood prestige. Pricing varies based on home size, condition, and location within the neighborhood, but buyers should expect a premium compared to nearby areas like West Portal or Forest Hill.

  • Despite its private, residential feel, St. Francis Wood offers excellent commuter access. Residents are close to West Portal Muni Metro lines, Highway 280, and major routes connecting to Downtown San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and the Peninsula, making it ideal for professionals who want both tranquility and convenience.