Although it’s within walking distance of colorful Haight Ashbury, Cole Valley’s look and feel is very different. The neighborhood exudes a fun yet relaxed energy that appeals to both families and young professionals. Residents have a bounty of tempting shops and eateries to choose from, including trendy, upscale restaurants. With everything you need right in your backyard, once you settle in Cole Valley, you may never want to leave. But if you do, the neighborhood’s middle-of-the-city location makes venturing to other parts of San Francisco a snap.

Some of Cole Valley’s hillside homes have views. The area is also close to UCSF’s Parnassus Street campus and Sutro Forest.