Living in Pacific Heights, San Francisco

Pacific Heights, San Francisco was first developed in the 1870’s, with small Victorian homes built. Starting around the start of the 20th century, and especially after the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake, many of these small homes were replaced with period homes. Still predominantly residential, the neighborhood is characterized by painted Victorian-style architecture.

Many famous people and celebrities reside in Pacific Heights. The neighborhood is home to the billionaire Getty Family, Representative Nancy Pelosi and author Danielle Steel. Both the “Full House” and “Mrs. Doubtfire” homes are also located here.

Thanks to good schools, fine dining and incredible views, it is no wonder that this well-known neighborhood is often considered one of San Francisco’s finest and most desirable places to call home!

Pacific Heights is located within Bush Street (some say Pine Street), Presidio Avenue, Union Street to the north, and Van Ness Avenue. (Lower Pacific Heights is the area south of California Street down to Post St.)

Characteristics of Pacific Heights:​​
The oldest building in the neighborhood, located at 2475 Pacific Avenue, was built in 1853, although the majority of the neighborhood was built after the 1906 earthquake. The architecture of the neighborhood is varied. Victorian, Mission Revival, Edwardian, and Château styles are common. Several countries have their consulates located here.

Pacific Heights Mansion

There are a ton of options for dining and recreation.  Small businesses, little bars and coffee shops, restaurants (see list below) and groceries can be found in beautiful and popular Pac Heights.
Residential-wise, single-family homes, condos, high- and mid-rise apartments can be found in this fabulous San Francisco neighborhood.

Most mansions come with their own  garage which is good since Pacific Heights is hilly. Most of street parking is occupied because of the busy commercial options.

Here is a recent list of some of the best restaurants in Pacific Heights.

Which ones have you been to? Which is your favorite restaurant?

Events: (canceled the summer of 2021 due to COVID-19)
An annual highlight of the neighborhood is the Fillmore Jazz and Art Festival. Usually held around the 4th of July, this is my favorite of the summer street festivals!

Adjacent to Pac Heights in Cow Hollow, the Union Street Fair is especially popular with younger adults and families. Stay tuned for this annually the first weekend of June. (Tentative 2022 dates are June 5-6.)

Rebecca’s Take:
Is Pacific Heights for you? Known as one of San Francisco’s most expensive neighborhoods, it’s undeniable that this is a small–or even large–family dream location. It’s safe and quiet, yet still accessible.

IF you are curious about the value of your home compared to those in Pacific Heights, feel free to check it out at Your San Francisco Home Value.