Balboa Terrace, San Francisco, CA
At a glance
Balboa Terrace is ranked #30 of 92 neighborhoods in San Francisco with an overall score of 3.7/5. Its standout factors are nearby merchants (4.5/5) and safety (4.3/5, 36th of 92 in San Francisco), at a median home price of $2.82M, which Houseberry currently rates as undervalued by about $8,000. The trade-off is public spaces (3.0/5), with prices running about 31% above the San Francisco median.
Neighborhood Reviews & Questions
Balboa Terrace in San Francisco is a secluded enclave, showcasing early 20th-century architecture and a refined, peaceful atmosphere. This exclusive neighborhood is a haven for those who appreciate historical elegance and a quieter way of life. The homes in Balboa Terrace, mainly from the 1920s and 1930s, are architectural masterpieces featuring styles like Mediterranean Revival and English Tudor. These residences are complemented by well-manicured gardens, enhancing the neighborhood's upscale aesthetic. Balboa Terrace is not just about the tranquility of its streets. It also offers easy access to West Portal Avenue, a nearby commercial street brimming with dining and shopping options. Among them is the beloved West Portal Daily, a cozy coffee shop and bakery that has become a local favorite, perfect for morning pastries or a leisurely afternoon coffee. Additionally, the neighborhood is within close proximity to the historic West Portal Theatre, offering residents a taste of local art and culture. This theater, with its old-school charm, showcases a variety of films, from the latest releases to indie favorites, making it a popular spot for moviegoers. Despite its residential focus, Balboa Terrace’s location offers residents easy access to the livelier parts of the city, while maintaining its serene, exclusive feel.
Top Neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA
Neighborhood Amenities
Near good merchants4.5
Public Spaces3
Curb Appeal4
Overall Amenities score: 3.7
Neighborhood Weather
Neighborhood Photos
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Schools serving this Neighborhood
| School Name | Type | Grades | Houseberry School Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sloat (Commodore) Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Aptos Middle | Middle | 6-8 |
Click links for school listing
info at GreatSchools.org
Houseberry School Score Data
from CA Dept. of Education
Houseberry recommends using these scores as only a starting point, and conducting your own investigation into what schools fit best for your preferences. School boundaries are not guaranteed and may change. It is important to contact the appropriate school district to confirm enrollment eligibility before making any decision to move to a neighborhood.
Median Price
Balboa Terrace FAQs10 answers
Is Balboa Terrace a good place to live?
Balboa Terrace ranks 30th of 92 neighborhoods in San Francisco with an overall Houseberry score of 3.7 out of 5. Its strongest factors are nearby merchants (4.5/5) and safety (4.3/5). The trade-offs are public spaces (3.0/5) and a median home price of $2.82M against the San Francisco median of $2.16M.
Is Balboa Terrace safe?
Balboa Terrace, San Francisco scores 4.3 out of 5 on Houseberry's Safety Score, ranking 36th of 92 neighborhoods in San Francisco.
What do homes in Balboa Terrace cost?
The median home price in Balboa Terrace, San Francisco is $2.82M, compared with $2.16M for San Francisco as a whole. Houseberry currently rates it undervalued by about $8,000 against comparable neighborhoods.
Are home prices in Balboa Terrace rising or falling?
The median home price in Balboa Terrace, San Francisco is up about 24.7% over the past 12 months, from $2.26M to $2.82M. The full 12-month history is charted in the Median Price section on this page.
Which schools serve Balboa Terrace?
Schools serving Balboa Terrace, San Francisco include Sloat (Commodore) Elementary (3.4/5) and Aptos Middle (3.6/5).
What is the weather like in Balboa Terrace?
Balboa Terrace, San Francisco receives 75% of its possible sunshine, 72nd of 92 in San Francisco. Summer days run 53° to 67°F and winter days 46° to 58°F, September is the warmest month and rainfall averages about 26 inches a year.
Is Balboa Terrace walkable to shops and restaurants?
Balboa Terrace, San Francisco scores 4.5 out of 5 for nearby merchants and 3.0 out of 5 for public spaces. Its overall amenities score is 3.7 out of 5, 20th of 92 in San Francisco.
What is Balboa Terrace known for?
Balboa Terrace, San Francisco is associated with Exclusive, Well-preserved and Peaceful. Its highest-scoring factors are nearby merchants (4.5/5) and safety (4.3/5).
How does Balboa Terrace compare to other San Francisco neighborhoods?
Balboa Terrace ranks 30th of 92 neighborhoods in San Francisco. It ranks 36th of 92 in San Francisco for safety (4.3/5) and scores lowest on public spaces (3.0/5). The highest-ranked neighborhoods in San Francisco are Jordan Park / Laurel Heights and Outer Sunset.
What are the downsides of living in Balboa Terrace?
Balboa Terrace, San Francisco scores lowest on public spaces (3.0/5). Its median home price of $2.82M runs about 31% above the San Francisco median of $2.16M.
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