Forest Knolls, San Francisco, CA
At a glance
Forest Knolls is ranked #8 of 92 neighborhoods in San Francisco with an overall score of 4.1/5. Its standout factors are safety (4.7/5, 8th of 92 in San Francisco) and schools (4.2/5), at a median home price of $3M, which Houseberry currently rates as overvalued by about $6,000. The trade-offs are public spaces (2.5/5) and nearby merchants (2.8/5), with prices running about 39% above the San Francisco median.
Neighborhood Reviews & Questions
Forest Knolls, nestled against the lush backdrop of Mount Sutro, is a neighborhood that offers a serene, forest-like environment within San Francisco. This secluded area, with its spacious mid-century homes and abundant greenery, provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s fast-paced rhythm. The neighborhood’s development in the mid-20th century was aimed at creating a suburban oasis in the city, and this intention is still evident in the spacious homes and large lots, many of which offer spectacular views of the city or the forest. The hilly terrain and surrounding eucalyptus groves of Mount Sutro add to the area’s secluded and tranquil ambiance. Residents of Forest Knolls have direct access to the Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve, a haven for nature lovers offering a network of trails through dense forest and foggy hilltops. Despite its secluded feel, Forest Knolls is just minutes away from the Inner Sunset, where a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options await. Forest Knolls stands out as a unique San Francisco neighborhood, combining the quietude of a forest retreat with the conveniences of urban living. It’s ideal for those who cherish privacy, nature, and spacious, scenic living within the city.
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Neighborhood Amenities
Near good merchants2.8
Public Spaces2.5
Curb Appeal3.5
Overall Amenities score: 3
Neighborhood Weather
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Schools serving this Neighborhood
| School Name | Type | Grades | Houseberry School Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clarendon Alternative Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Presidio Middle | Middle | 6-8 |
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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
Forest Knolls FAQs10 answers
Is Forest Knolls a good place to live?
Forest Knolls ranks 8th of 92 neighborhoods in San Francisco with an overall Houseberry score of 4.1 out of 5. Its strongest factors are safety (4.7/5) and schools (4.2/5). The trade-offs are public spaces (2.5/5) and nearby merchants (2.8/5) and a median home price of $3M against the San Francisco median of $2.16M.
Is Forest Knolls safe?
Forest Knolls, San Francisco scores 4.7 out of 5 on Houseberry's Safety Score, ranking 8th of 92 neighborhoods in San Francisco.
What do homes in Forest Knolls cost?
The median home price in Forest Knolls, San Francisco is $3M, compared with $2.16M for San Francisco as a whole. Houseberry currently rates it overvalued by about $6,000 against comparable neighborhoods.
Are home prices in Forest Knolls rising or falling?
The median home price in Forest Knolls, San Francisco is up about 37.8% over the past 12 months, from $2.18M to $3M. The full 12-month history is charted in the Median Price section on this page.
Which schools serve Forest Knolls?
Schools serving Forest Knolls, San Francisco include Clarendon Alternative Elementary (4.3/5) and Presidio Middle (4.0/5).
What is the weather like in Forest Knolls?
Forest Knolls, San Francisco receives 77% of its possible sunshine, 31st of 92 in San Francisco. Summer days run 53° to 69°F and winter days 45° to 58°F, September is the warmest month and rainfall averages about 27 inches a year.
Is Forest Knolls walkable to shops and restaurants?
Forest Knolls, San Francisco scores 2.8 out of 5 for nearby merchants and 2.5 out of 5 for public spaces. Its overall amenities score is 3.0 out of 5, 66th of 92 in San Francisco.
What is Forest Knolls known for?
Forest Knolls, San Francisco is associated with Wooded, Secluded and Serene. Its highest-scoring factors are safety (4.7/5) and schools (4.2/5).
How does Forest Knolls compare to other San Francisco neighborhoods?
Forest Knolls ranks 8th of 92 neighborhoods in San Francisco. It ranks 8th of 92 in San Francisco for safety (4.7/5) and scores lowest on public spaces (2.5/5). The next-ranked neighborhoods in San Francisco are Lake Street and Central Sunset.
What are the downsides of living in Forest Knolls?
Forest Knolls, San Francisco scores lowest on public spaces (2.5/5) and nearby merchants (2.8/5). Its median home price of $3M runs about 39% above the San Francisco median of $2.16M.
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