Nob Hill / Lower Nob Hill
Classic San Francisco elegance meets modern city living.
Perched above downtown, Nob Hill is one of San Francisco’s most iconic neighborhoods—synonymous with historic hotels, cable cars, and sweeping city views. Just below it, Lower Nob Hill offers a more accessible, vibrant atmosphere with charming mid-rise buildings, trendy eateries, and a central location that’s ideal for professionals and urban explorers.
Neighborhood Highlights
🚋 Cable Cars & Classic Views – Ride past Grace Cathedral or Huntington Park with panoramic sights in every direction.
🛎️ Landmark Hotels – Fairmont, Mark Hopkins, and InterContinental make up the historic hotel district.
☕ Local Favorites – Swan Oyster Depot, Nob Hill Cafe, Le Beau Market, and neighborhood gems throughout Lower Nob Hill.
🚶 Super Walkable – Steps from Union Square, Chinatown, Polk Street, and the Financial District.
🏙️ Mixed Residential – From old-world mansions and co-ops to modern condos and rental flats.
A Brief History
Nob Hill earned its name from the “nabobs” of the late 1800s—railroad barons who built opulent mansions atop the hill. Though many were lost in the 1906 earthquake, the area was rebuilt with elegance. Today, Nob Hill retains its prestigious feel, while Lower Nob Hill has grown into a dynamic and diverse community known for its energy, accessibility, and architecture.
Real Estate & Architecture
🏛️ Pre-war apartment buildings and co-ops
🏢 Modern and renovated condos with boutique charm
🌁 Penthouse views of downtown, bridges, and the bay
📈 Strong demand for well-located units near transit and downtown hubs
👉 Explore Nob Hill Listings →
Who Lives Here
The area attracts a broad mix of San Franciscans:
Professionals working downtown or in tech
Empty nesters and retirees seeking charm and walkability
Young buyers and renters looking for city access
Co-op owners and long-term residents who value architectural history
Expect high walk scores, strong transit access, and a balance between prestige and practicality.
Schools & Services
While not a family-oriented area, residents benefit from:
Nearby schools like Spring Valley Elementary and Redding Elementary
Private academies and Montessori programs nearby
Close proximity to hospitals (St. Francis Memorial, CPMC Van Ness) and professional services
Market Summary
Nob Hill and Lower Nob Hill experienced steady growth in Q3 2025, driven by stable demand for condos and a modest uptick in single-family activity. Condos under $1 million saw renewed interest, particularly in boutique pre-war and mid-century buildings. While inventory tightened slightly, days on market remained balanced across price points.
Heading into Winter 2025, the neighborhoods are expected to maintain pricing stability with selective buyer demand focused on remodeled units and buildings with strong amenities or parking. The overall tone remains steady and balanced for both buyers and sellers.
Thinking About Buying in Nob Hill?
Mark D McHale understands the nuances of co-op boards, architectural charm, and what makes a great Nob Hill property stand out. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or seasoned investor, Mark’s local knowledge and strategic approach can help you find the right fit.
Nob Hill / Lower Nob Hill Real Estate Snapshot–Q3 2025
| Metric | Single-Family Homes | Condos / TICs |
|---|---|---|
| Median Sales Price | $ 2,445,000 ▲ + 2.2 % QoQ | $ 995,000 ▲ + 1.9 % QoQ |
| Average Price / Sq Ft | $ 1,155 → Stable | $ 985 ▲ + 2.5 % QoQ |
| Average Days on Market | 28 Days → Unchanged | 40 Days ▼ − 5 Days QoQ |
| List-to-Sale Price Ratio | 101.6 % ▲ + 0.5 pts QoQ | 99.4 % ▲ + 1.1 pts QoQ |
| Sold Over Asking | 42 % of Sales ▲ + 4 % QoQ | 38 % of Sales → Flat |
| Active Listings (End of Quarter) | 11 Homes ▼ − 12 % QoQ | 28 Units ▼ − 16 % QoQ |
| Months’ Supply of Inventory (MSI) | 1.9 → Balanced | 2.4 → Balanced |
*Note: Vanguard Properties reports at the district level. Single-family home data for Nob Hill / Lower Nob Hill is extrapolated from District 6 averages (North of Market) and adjusted using SFAR MLS data and Q3 2025 market trends.*
Compiled & Presented by Mark D. McHale Real Estate | Updated October 2025
For Sale – $329,000
Studio Condominium
Frequently Asked Questions about Nob Hill & Lower Nob Hill
Is Nob Hill a good neighborhood to buy in 2025?
Yes. Nob Hill and Lower Nob Hill continue to attract buyers seeking central location, architectural charm, and walkability. Despite higher interest rates, these neighborhoods remain resilient thanks to their blend of pre-war elegance and modern condo developments.
What is the average home price in Nob Hill?
As of Q3 2025, the median single-family home price is around $2.45 million, while condos and TICs average $995,000. Both segments saw modest quarterly increases, with higher-end buildings outperforming the market.
How long do homes stay on the market?
Single-family homes averaged 28 days on market and condos averaged 40 days in Q3 2025. Turnkey and view properties continue to sell faster, while older co-ops and unrenovated condos tend to move more slowly.
Are homes still selling above asking?
Yes. Around 42% of single-family homes and 38% of condos sold above the list price in Q3 2025. Properties in boutique buildings and elevator-access condos with parking remain especially competitive.
How much inventory is currently available?
Inventory tightened slightly in Q3 2025, with 11 homes and 28 condos available at quarter’s end. Months’ Supply of Inventory (MSI) remains balanced, at roughly 1.9 for homes and 2.4 for condos.
What’s the market outlook for Winter 2025?
The outlook remains stable heading into Winter 2025. Buyers can expect balanced conditions, with steady prices and moderate competition for move-in-ready listings, especially in elevator buildings with views or outdoor space.
What makes Nob Hill and Lower Nob Hill appealing to buyers?
The neighborhoods offer a quintessential San Francisco experience — historic architecture, skyline views, walkability, and proximity to downtown, cable cars, and fine dining. Lower Nob Hill in particular attracts first-time buyers and investors seeking centrally located condos at accessible price points.
Source: Vanguard Properties – San Francisco Market Update (Q3 2025)
Compiled & Presented by Mark D. McHale Real Estate | Updated October 2025
