Moving to Daly City and considering the Hillside neighborhood? You’re in for a treat. Hillside is one of Daly City’s oldest and most character-rich areas, offering a unique blend of traditional charm, community warmth, and metropolitan convenience. Whether you’re drawn by its peaceful streets, family-friendly vibes, or excellent location, here’s what you need to know about living in Hillside from a neighbor’s perspective.
Community Vibe: Old-School Charm with Diverse Energy
Hillside has a true “old Daly City” feel. Picture quiet, tree-lined streets like Hillside Boulevard and Mission Street, where neighbors still wave hello and keep their front yards tidy. The community is a friendly mosaic, with longtime residents who remember Daly City back when it was mostly farmland and newer families seeking urban access with a small-town touch.
It’s a melting pot, reflecting Daly City’s overall diversity—Filipino and Latino families, young professionals, retirees, and everyone in between. You’ll see kids playing on the sidewalks, folks walking their dogs, and impromptu neighborhood gatherings near local markets or taquerias on Mission Street. There’s genuine pride here: people look out for one another, and local issues are discussed at the grassroots level.
Types of Housing: Classic Bungalows and Unique Finds
Hillside’s housing stock dates back to the early- and mid-20th century, so you’ll find classic California bungalows, Eichler-esque ranch homes, and the occasional charming Victorian. Many homes are single-family residences, some with spacious backyards and stunning views toward San Bruno Mountain.
A few multi-family properties dot streets like Brunswick Street and Hanover Street, but for the most part, Hillside feels residential and established. You’ll find:
- Post-war bungalows, often with original wood floors and period details
- Split-level homes from the 1950s-60s with generous driveways and garages
- Some newer infill developments, which blend moderately with older facades
Yards are typically well-kept, thanks to a neighborly spirit of pride and the area’s reliable fog that keeps everything green.
Walkability: Everyday Convenience Close to Home
Hillside isn’t Daly City’s most walkable neighborhood overall, but for daily needs, it’s easy to get around on foot—especially if you’re close to Mission Street. That corridor is a hub of grocery stores like Pacific Supermarket, cafes, bakeries, hardware stores, and legendary eateries like Joe’s of Westlake and Original Joe’s.
You can walk to:
- SamTrans bus stops along Mission and Hillside
- Local markets and dining options (don’t miss the panaderías for fresh conchas)
- Daly City BART station (if you’re near the southern end of Hillside)
- Schools, libraries, and parks, usually within about half a mile
Since the area rises up Daly City’s hills, some streets are steep—bring comfortable shoes for those power walks!
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Solid Choices and Community Spirit
Parents in Hillside value the neighborhood’s access to quality schools. Some families fall within the boundaries for:
- Westlake Elementary School
- Woodrow Wilson Elementary School
- Benjamin Franklin Intermediate
- Jefferson High School
There are also private and parochial options nearby, including Our Lady of Perpetual Help School on Wellington Avenue.
Families appreciate the active PTAs, after-school programs, and the fact that many teachers have decades-long roots in Daly City. The area feels safe for kids walking to school or to Gellert Park for afternoon soccer.
Parks and Green Spaces: Urban Oases for All Ages
One of Hillside’s top assets is its proximity to excellent parks and green spaces. Residents love:
- Hillside Park (Wellington Avenue): This local favorite has a playground, basketball courts, picnic areas, and flowery hillside trails with views over Daly City. It’s perfect for weekend gatherings or a quiet stroll at sunset.
- San Bruno Mountain State & County Park: Just a five-minute drive (or an ambitious walk) from most of Hillside, this huge state park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and panoramic Bay Area vistas.
- Lincoln Park and Playground: Popular for its updated play structures and shaded benches.
Even if you live on the quieter residential stretches—like the blocks surrounding Hoffman or School Street—you’re rarely more than a brisk walk from a park.
Safety: A Secure and Peaceful Community
Neighbors in Hillside will tell you that safety is a big reason they stay put. The area is mostly residential and tucked away from busier corridors, so there’s little through traffic or noise late at night. Well-lit streets and engaged homeowners make it easy to feel secure walking home from a Muni stop or letting kids play outside.
Of course, like everywhere in the Bay Area, locking your car and staying alert is always advised, but serious crime is relatively rare here compared to more densely populated districts.
Proximity to Downtown & Major Employers: Commute Convenience
Hillside is ideally situated for both public transit users and drivers.
- Daly City BART is just minutes away by car, bike, or foot.
- Quick connections to Hwy 280 and 101 make commuting into San Francisco, South San Francisco, or the Peninsula a breeze.
- SFO airport is about a 15-minute drive for frequent flyers.
- Major employment hubs—Seton Medical Center, the biotech corridor in South San Francisco, and downtown SF—are all convenient to reach.
For those who want urban energy but value a quiet home base, Hillside is perfectly placed.
What Residents Love Most: Community, Views, and Value
Ask Hillside residents what sets the neighborhood apart, and you’ll hear a few recurring themes:
- The friendly, low-key vibe—neighbors chat over fences, and there’s a real feeling of belonging.
- Spectacular evening sunsets and views of the city lights from backyard patios and west-facing windows.
- Proximity to both city amenities and vast open space (San Bruno Mountain).
- The quieter, slower pace compared to bigger Daly City developments to the west.
- Real value compared to many San Francisco neighborhoods, with more yard space and parking.
If you’re seeking a caring community, distinct character homes, and the sweet spot between calm and connected, Hillside might just be Daly City’s best-kept secret.