Russian Hill stands atop one of the Bay Area's original “Seven Hills” and serves as one of the central neighborhoods in
San Francisco. Not to mention one of its most popular! Home to the famous Lombard Street and offering magnificent views of the rest of the city, Russian Hill also garners as much popularity as Union Square itself. The area is a blend of a relatively residential district and a popular tourist hub, striking a nice balance between the two that both locals and tourists can enjoy. Things are always lively here, but it's also one of the more chill parts of the city.
Where is Russian Hill in San Francisco?
Since it's one of the Bay Area's original “Seven Hills,” it's no surprise that Russian Hill is in the middle of the city. To say that it's one of
San Francisco's central neighborhoods is an understatement. Russian Hill is right smack in the middle of all the action, surrounded by many of the city's most prominent districts. The beloved Fisherman's Wharf waterfront is to its north, North Beach is to its east, Nob Hill is to its south, and the famously upscale Pacific Heights is to its west. Such proximity to these popular areas helps make Russian Hill fairly renowned, too.
Is it Safe in Russian Hill, San Francisco?
Good news for anyone looking to settle down in San Francisco's Russian Hill. The area is a generally safe neighborhood, possibly among the safest in the entire Bay Area. It helps that it's a largely residential neighborhood, featuring more family homes than commercial establishments. This allows the place to maintain a level of peace you won't find in other parts of the city. The hill also provides a sort of natural barrier from the rest of the metropolis, specifically the more dangerous ones. All of this helps Russian Hill maintain low
crime rates in San Francisco and its famous small village-like vibe.
What's the Vibe in Russian Hill, San Francisco?
Russian Hill never fails to seduce and fascinate locals and tourists alike with its fabulous mix of old-world charm and modern elegance. Various Victorian and Edwardian homes in the area maintain the district’s historic appeal, so much so that you'd sooner think you stumbled upon the set of a period film. Don't miss the famous Lombard Street, too, one of the most picturesque crooked streets in the Bay Area and beyond. It's become as famous as many of the city's iconic landmarks, which goes to show that Russian Hill's beauty knows no bounds. If you've just
moved to San Francisco and are looking for a place to stay, consider settling down here!
Is it Expensive in Russian Hill, San Francisco?
Without a doubt! With its old-world elegance and popular hotspots, Russian Hill ranks among the most affluent neighborhoods in San Francisco. Is it the most expensive part of town? No, not by a long shot! The likes of Pacific Heights and Noe Valley still have it beat. With that said, Russian Hill remains a bit pricer than the rest of the city, often having slightly higher
living costs in San Francisco. The average rent here, for instance, is a whopping $4,795.00 per month, already higher than the city-wide average, which is $3,400.00 per month. And if you eat out here, expect to pay as much as $15.00 to $50.00 per meal in a mid-range restaurant.
What to See in Russian Hill, San Francisco
Russian Hill is practically synonymous with Lombard Street and vice versa. This famous crooked street, fabulously floral with the small gardens that dot the curves, is among the most picturesque spots in the city. It's undoubtedly the most famous sight to see in the neighborhood, not to mention one of the most beloved landmarks in all of the Bay Area. Its fame is practically right up there with the likes of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the “Painted Ladies” Victorian houses. Even if you'll only have one
day in San Francisco, spend it y seeing this enchanting street in person!
What to Do in Russian Hill, San Francisco
Despite how popular a place it is, Russian Hill surprisingly maintains a level of peace you won't find in other parts of the Bay Area. Its village-like vibe provides a tranquil escape, making it one of the best areas to take it slow in San Francisco. If you're lucky enough to see Lombard Street empty, or at least not as crowded as it usually is, take the time to walk down the iconic crooked street and appreciate the scenery. You can also enjoy the fabulous culinary scene on Polk Street, which features many dining favorites. Overall, a pleasant time awaits anyone lucky enough to spend time in Russian Hill.
The Best Restaurants in Russian Hill, San Francisco
Russian Hill doesn't get enough credit for its foodie scene. You may find some of the city's best eateries, even
San Francisco's best Michelin-starred restaurants, in other neighborhoods, but the ones here are nothing to scoff at! Amarena on Larkin Street, for example, is a romantic Italian restaurant that can even put the (arguably) more authentic hotspots in North Beach, the Bay Area's main Italian conclave. Leopold's on Polk Street, on the other hand, is a classic Austrian pub that takes you back to old-world Europe, both with its authentic cuisine and novel decor and ambiance.
Check out any or all of Russian Hill’s best eateries listed below:
- Abrazo on Hyde Street
- Amarena on Larkin Street
- Da Flora on Columbus Street
- Frascati on Hyde Street
- Leopold's on Polk Street
- Mezcalito on Polk Street
- Serafina on Jones Street
- Seven Hills on Hyde Street
- The New Spot on Polk on Polk Street
- Union Larder on Hyde Street
What to Know About Renting in Russian Hill, San Francisco
As mentioned previously, rent in Russian Hill is almost inexplicably high. The average rent here is a whopping $4,795.00 per month, considerably higher than the city-wide average, which is $3,400.00 per month. The latter alone is already notably high, even in other big cities like New York City. But if you
rent a luxury apartment in San Francisco, such prices are only average, which makes the high average in Russian Hill even crazier. That's even just the median price, which means higher prices are just as common in the neighborhood, too.
From its breathtaking city views to its coolest hotspots, there's a lot to expect in San Francisco's Russian Hill. It's one of the best neighborhoods in the Bay Area, providing a lot of excitement within an upscale residential district.
