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Russian Hill

Russian Hill

Neighborhood in San Francisco, California

San Francisco 94109, 94133

Neighborhood Reviews
3.8
$2,011,830 Average Value
$1,265 Average Price per Sq Ft
38 Homes For Sale

Much more than a tourist hotspot

Russian Hill is a San Francisco neighborhood known in part for its famous Lombard Street, a zig-zagging artery affectionately known as the crookedest street in the world. Lombard is a bustling stretch with awe-inspiring views looking out toward the bay and draws droves of tourists. But Russian Hill is much more than just a photo op. Rather, this is a convenient spot to live in, too. It’s easy to get around, says Russian Hill resident Kalani Ruidas. “It’s super walkable,” says Ruidas, a designer at Fiori, a florist shop in the nearby Marina District neighborhood. “Anywhere you want to go — stores are really close, gyms are really close.”

The Cable Car in Russian Hill stops at the iconic Lombard Street summit.
The Cable Car in Russian Hill stops at the iconic Lombard Street summit.
Russian Hill extends all the way down to the iconic Columbus Street.
Russian Hill extends all the way down to the iconic Columbus Street.
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Classic housing still going strong

Many of Russian Hill’s homes date back to the early 20th century, a varied mix of everything from Mission Revival options to Victorians to contemporary-style houses. Many of the structures in the neighborhood are multifamily residences, including duplexes and apartment buildings. But there are also some sizable single-family houses in the neighborhood, some with their own standout views of the bay. “Oh my God, some of them are absolutely crazy,” Ruidas says. In fact, the average square footage for homes across Russian Hill is about 4,100. Price tags here often range from around $1 million for a condo of around 1,000 square feet to around $9 million for a single-family home of well over 4,000 square feet.

This intersection of Russian Hill highlights the variety in architectural styles.
This intersection of Russian Hill highlights the variety in architectural styles.
Francisco Park has beautiful views of Alcatraz in Russian Hill, CA.
Francisco Park has beautiful views of Alcatraz in Russian Hill, CA.
The lush landscaping in Russian Hill gives residents incentive to relax in outdoor spaces.
The lush landscaping in Russian Hill gives residents incentive to relax in outdoor spaces.
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Good eats are easy to find

Among Russian Hill’s conveniences is an assortment of nearby restaurants and cafes, within walking distance. Many are along thoroughfares like Hyde Street and Polk Street, including Elephant Sushi, on Hyde. “That is my favorite. That is really good,” Ruidas says. “There’s a lot of old-timey places on Hyde.” The flaming sea bass is one of Elephant Sushi’s hits. Fiorella, on Polk, is really popular, too, Ruidas says, an Italian restaurant with standout pizza. Meanwhile, those looking to enjoy a home-cooked meal can pick up quick groceries at Polk Street Market or the Bi-Rite Market set to open in spring 2024. Locals can follow a meal in Russian Hill with a visit to a place like the Cartoon Art Museum, which features some 7,000 original pieces, displaying all manner of comics. Or they can see a show at a spot like Cobb's Comedy Club, where acts take the stage almost every night. The Cartoon Art Museum is adjacent to Ghirardelli Square, a repurposed chocolate factory that’s now a mixed-use complex with restaurants, shops, a hotel and more.

Russian Hill's Elephant Sushi's iconic flaming seabass literally cooks at the table.
Russian Hill's Elephant Sushi's iconic flaming seabass literally cooks at the table.
Russian Hill's Fiorella restaurant serves iconic pizzas with unique ingredient combinations.
Russian Hill's Fiorella restaurant serves iconic pizzas with unique ingredient combinations.
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Locals take maintenance seriously

Among the regular events in the neighborhood, backed by the Russian Hill Neighbors organization, are regular neighborhood clean-up meetups. Russian Hill Neighbors also hosts Parks Works Days, to trim, prune and weed some of the neighborhood’s natural assets. Other events include a monthly game night for area residents and a book club, hosted by Russian Hill Bookstore on Polk Street.

Francisco park has an amazing dog park in Russian Hill.
Francisco park has an amazing dog park in Russian Hill.
The signage for Lombard Street and Gardens is full of graffiti.
The signage for Lombard Street and Gardens is full of graffiti.
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Close-by schools are well-rated

The San Francisco Unified School District is not only well-regarded across the board, with an A overall rating on Niche, but it also allows students and their families to pick their preferred institutions. But among the options particularly close to those who live in Russian Hill is the A-rated Yick Wo Alternative Elementary School, whose arts and enrichment opportunities range from ceramics to gardening. Students may then move on to the B-plus-rated Francisco Middle, where students have the option of participating in baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, track and field, and volleyball teams. Galileo Academy of Science & Technology is an A-rated option for grades 9 to 12 and has dedicated programs in entrepreneurship, computer science, health, biotech, digital communication and environmental science.

Russian Hill's Yick Wo Elementary School has great views of the SF Skyline.
Russian Hill's Yick Wo Elementary School has great views of the SF Skyline.
Francisco Middle School is the first choice for Russian Hill residents.
Francisco Middle School is the first choice for Russian Hill residents.
Galileo High School provides education in the neighborhood of 
Russian Hill
Galileo High School provides education in the neighborhood of Russian Hill
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Outdoor recreation is all over

Russian Hill packs plenty of recreational space, too. It seems there’s a park every few blocks. The roughly 3-acre George Sterling Park is one of the standouts, with tennis and basketball courts that overlook the city. Francisco Park has similarly sumptuous views and comes complete with a playground. Outdoor fun here can also be as simple as a jaunt down the street. “People do a lot of biking and running,” Ruidas says. “The hills are really steep, so it’s really good for running, getting your resistance training.”

Russian Hill's own George Sterling Park is a stunning place to play tennis or basketball.
Russian Hill's own George Sterling Park is a stunning place to play tennis or basketball.
A beautiful winding walkway connects the upper and lower areas of Russian Hill's Francisco Park.
A beautiful winding walkway connects the upper and lower areas of Russian Hill's Francisco Park.
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Public transportation is a breeze to reach

Russian Hill may be walkable, but those looking for a quicker trip can enjoy the neighborhood's myriad San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Muni bus and cable car stops The Muni bus system includes roughly 60 routes. Also, Lombard Street here is so popular that drivers may want to avoid it. “There’s a lot of traffic on that street, let me tell you,” Ruidas says. “It’s really beautiful to look at. That little area, it’s at the top of the hill. You can see views of the city, you can see across to the Bay Bridge.” But drivers can take advantage of Russian Hill’s proximity to U.S. Route 101 to get to other parts of the city or to cross the Golden Gate Bridge into spots like Sausalito.

Public transportation is one of the most convenient and accessible methods of transportation.
Public transportation is one of the most convenient and accessible methods of transportation.
Russian Hill's Cable Cars have been operating since the 1800's.
Russian Hill's Cable Cars have been operating since the 1800's.
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Wayne Epps Jr.
Written By
Wayne Epps Jr.
Sheldon Steere
Photography Contributed By
Sheldon Steere
Michael Carey
Video By
Michael Carey

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Shirin Zehtabfard, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

San Francisco International

26 min drive

Subway

Columbus And Lombard

Subway

Union And Mason

Subway

Union And Hyde

Subway

Mason And Green

Subway

Mason And Greenwich

Subway

Columbus And Lombard Sb

Subway

Hyde And Vallejo

Subway

Hyde And Filbert

Subway

Hyde And Greenwich

Subway

Hyde And Lombard

Subway

Hyde And Chestnut

Subway

Hyde And Bay

Subway

Hyde And North Point

Bus

Polk St & Broadway

Bus

North Point St & Hyde St

Bus

North Point St & Van Ness Ave

Bus

Polk St & Union St

Bus

Van Ness Ave & Chestnut St

Bus

Columbus Ave & Lombard St

Bus

Polk St & Francisco St

Reviews

Niche Reviews
3.8 13 Reviews
4.0 Niche User
3/24/2015 Niche Review
Gyms are popping up everywhere nowadays, there at least 6 or 7 within walking distance of me. I see people running all the time!
3.0 Niche User
4/24/2015 Niche Review
The housing and apartments here are not the best, but it is bearable.
4.0 Niche User
4/24/2015 Niche Review
There are a great variety of foods around the area, especially Asian culture foods.
3.0 Niche User
3/24/2015 Niche Review
Property is expensive here in San Francisco no matter where you live. As a result, abandoned buildings are constantly being renovated. Gentrification is a byproduct of this, as wealthy individuals and companies move into lower income areas forcing locals and long time residents out.
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Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime Russian Hill US
Homicide 3 4
Sexual Assault 2 4
Assault with Weapon 2 4
Robbery 4 4
Burglary 4 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 4 4
Larceny 4 4
Crime Score 4 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Demographics and Home Trends

Home Trends

Median Price (12 Mo)
$1,380,000
Median Single Family Price
$2,800,000
Median Townhouse Price
$2,699,000
Median 2 Bedroom Price
$1,500,000
Median 1 Bedroom Price
$890,000
Median Studio Price
$528,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$1,265
Number of Homes for Sale
38
Last 12 months Home Sales
102
Months of Supply
4.50
Median List Price
$1,612,500
Median Discount From 1st List Price
0%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-14%

Home Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
2,043
Median Year Built
1930
Avg. Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
2,868
Significantly above the national average
1,935
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
2,490
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,330
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
913
Average Studio Size Sq Ft
491
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
2,613

Open Houses

  • Sunday, Apr 27
    2 - 4pm

    1370 Green St, San Francisco, CA 94109

    $2,299,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,861 Sq Ft
    • 1370 Green St
    • New 10 hours ago

    Located just one block from the vibrant heart of Polk Street, this bright and spacious Russian Hill top floor condo offers abundant natural light, ample storage, and a beautifully designed layout. Modern meets San Francisco charm, the crown jewel is a panoramic rooftop deck with sweeping views of the Golden Gate bridgeperfect for entertaining or unwinding. Enjoy classic San Francisco living in

    Faye Dibachi Compass

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  • Sunday, Apr 27
    2 - 4pm

    36 Houston St, San Francisco, CA 94133

    $2,295,000

    • 4 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,418 Sq Ft
    • 36 Houston St
    • New 3 days ago

    Stylishly modern 4-bed, 3-bath, two-level Russian Hill/North Beach condo just off Columbus near landmarks like Washington Square and storied live-show venue Bimbo's. Exceptional 98 Walk Score, 84 Transit Score & 71 Bike Score. Bright upper level features a spacious open layout enhanced by skylights, recessed lighting, a chic fireplace, and peek-a-boo skyline views. An updated stainless gourmet

    Kevin Ho Vanguard Properties

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  • Thursday, Apr 24
    4 - 6pm

    24 White St, San Francisco, CA 94109

    $2,495,000

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,674 Sq Ft
    • 24 White St
    • New 3 days ago

    Tucked away on a quiet Russian Hill cul-de-sac, this inviting and beautifully updated home blends timeless charm with modern living. The main level offers open living and dining areas with built-in bookshelves, a fireplace, and a tranquil private courtyard. The remodeled kitchen features granite counters, stainless steel appliances, a pantry, and a breakfast baropening seamlessly to a rear deck

    Stephen Gomez Compass

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Condo Buildings

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Shirin Zehtabfard, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Average Home Value




Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Renters

Demographics

Total Population
14,143
Median Age
40
Population Density
54 ppl/acre
Population under 18
14.2%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
20.8%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$161,829
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$179,741

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
94.4%
College Graduates
76.8%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
34.5%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
75.7%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
22''
Average Winter Low Temperature
46°F
Average Summer High Temperature
68°F
Annual Snowfall
0''

Area Factors

Very Bikeable

Bike Score®

70 / 100

Walker's Paradise

Walk Score®

96 / 100

Excellent Transit

Transit Score®

85 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

Nearby Neighborhoods

Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
NEIGHBORHOOD
Russian Hill