By Jessica Flint | Photography by Winni Wintermeyer for WSJ

San Francisco is back after pandemic-related struggles -- and growing up. Affluent young families demanding space have elevated the 94127 ZIP Code, which is anchored by the walkable West Portal village center and encompasses desirable residential neighborhoods such as St. Francis Wood. This west side pocket reliably offers a rare San Francisco luxury: detached single-family homes with yards.

The suburbia-in-the-city lifestyle has recently propelled the ZIP Code to rival historically more expensive city enclaves. In October, its $2.5 million median listing price was second only to the $2.7 million median in premiere address Pacific Heights, according to Realtor.com. ( News Corp, owner of The Wall Street Journal, also operates Realtor.com.)

Drawing both new and multigenerational residents, 94127's appeal also lies in easy transit to downtown and the Peninsula and popular private school proximity.

West Portal Avenue, a roughly three-block stretch, is 94127's commercial core. Home to both new and legacy businesses, it's defined by a rail tunnel that provides a fast commute downtown.

Elena's

Founded in 2024, this Mexican-American spot is owned by the third-generation family behind Original Joe's, a San Francisco dining institution for more than eight decades.

Bookshop West Portal

This independent bookstore has been around since 2006. It hosts a lively calendar of events, including author talks and signings with major writers.

George's Donuts & Merriment

Opened in early 2025, this upscale cafe offers elevated doughnuts in addition to lunch fare. One of its co-founders is Hims & Hers telehealth CEO Andrew Dudum, who was born and raised in West Portal.

Guerra Quality Meats

This family-run butcher shop, established in 1954, is prized for its high-quality meats, deli selection and personal service. It is one of the few remaining old-school butchers in the city.

Classic 94127 hike

At 938 feet, Mount Davidson holds the distinction as San Francisco's highest natural point -- a fact that often surprises people who mistakenly grant that title to Twin Peaks, further north and at 922 feet. This prominent, yet generally less-traveled summit is a favorite local hiking spot.

Membership to have

The Olympic Club sits close enough to 94127 for residents to consider it their own. Founded in 1860, it's one of the oldest athletic clubs in the country. It has two 18-hole championship courses and a 9-hole executive course. It also has a separate downtown clubhouse.

Advice for the buyer

Inventory in 94127 is limited, says Alexander Fromm Lurie, executive vice president of City Real Estate San Francisco. He recommends buyers work with an agent knowledgeable about off-market properties, as he says 20% to 30% of homes in this area are available privately before public listing. Additionally, Laurie suggests buyers prearrange financing to be able to act quickly. "A significant portion of sales are all-cash," he says, estimating that in San Francisco, more than 50% of homes above $5 million are cash transactions.

Median List Price $2.5 million (up 21% year-over-year)

Median days on market 37

Median price per square foot $952

Active Listings 16 (down 42% year-over-year)

Source: Realtor.com (October 2025)

This house with a curved facade was built around 1970. It is in the 94217 portion of the Forest Hills Extension neighborhood. There are six bedrooms on a single level, including a primary suite with ocean views. The 2,766-square-foot lower level has an entertainment room and two guest rooms. There is also a four car garage and elevator to all five levels. Agent: Neal Ward, Compass.

This detached Mediterranean-style home is in the St. Francis Wood neighborhood. Built in 1925, it has recently been fully renovated. The kitchen on the first floor opens to a dining area and family room. Upstairs, the primary suite has dual vanities and a soaking tub. There is a lower-level suite with a private entry. Agent: Dale T. Boutiette, Compass.

Write to Jessica Flint at Jessica.Flint@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

November 19, 2025 12:00 ET (17:00 GMT)

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