Portola & University Mound

Portola is one of San Francisco’s best-kept secrets—an inviting, diverse neighborhood with a strong sense of community, growing real estate appeal, and a lifestyle that blends urban energy with suburban comfort.

🌿 Welcome to Portola: San Francisco’s Garden District

Tucked along the city’s southeastern hills, Portola (pronounced “POR-tuh-luh”) is a vibrant, evolving neighborhood that offers a refreshing mix of affordability, charm, and community spirit. Known historically for its greenhouses and nurseries, Portola still lives up to its “Garden District” nickname with lush front yards, nearby McLaren Park, and a deep-rooted appreciation for nature and neighborhood pride.

👫 Community & Culture

Portola is a culturally rich and tight-knit community, home to a diverse mix of residents and a growing number of young professionals. The neighborhood’s identity is shaped by:

  • San Bruno Avenue, the bustling commercial corridor filled with local eateries, bakeries, and mom-and-pop shops
  • The Portola Music Festival, a beloved annual event that celebrates the area’s creative spirit
  • Community gardens and green spaces, including easy access to McLaren Park, one of the city’s largest parks

🎓 Schools & Livability

Families are drawn to Portola for its highly rated public schools and safe, walkable streets. The neighborhood’s blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquility makes it ideal for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.

🚇 Accessibility

Portola offers excellent connectivity to downtown San Francisco and the Peninsula via nearby freeways and public transit options. Whether commuting to work or exploring the city, residents enjoy a central location with room to breathe.

🏡 Why Buyers Love Portola

Portola is ideal for those looking to stay in San Francisco without the premium price tag of neighborhoods like Noe Valley or Bernal Heights. Here’s what makes it stand out:

  • Spacious homes with private yards and classic mid-century charm
  • Competitive pricing, with many properties offering excellent value and upside potential
  • Fast-moving market, where well-priced homes don’t stay listed for long

Thinking about buying or selling in Portola? I specialize in helping clients navigate San Francisco’s evolving neighborhoods with clarity, strategy, and heart. Let’s connect and explore what’s possible.

📩 Contact me today to learn more about opportunities in Portola and beyond. Call or text to 415-336-0205 today!

 

Overview for Portola & University Mound, CA

16,594 people live in Portola & University Mound, where the median age is 43 and the average individual income is $53,706. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

16,594

Total Population

43 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$53,706

Average individual Income

Around Portola & University Mound, CA

There's plenty to do around Portola & University Mound, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

62
Somewhat Walkable
Walking Score
53
Bikeable
Bike Score
66
Good Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Physical Therapy& Pilates, Enshin Karate SF, and San Francisco Lawn Bowling Club.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Active 1.36 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 4.35 miles 15 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.96 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.82 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.68 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 4.28 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Portola & University Mound, CA

Portola & University Mound has 5,100 households, with an average household size of 3. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Portola & University Mound do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 16,594 people call Portola & University Mound home. The population density is 30,033.911 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

16,594

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

43

Median Age

51.45 / 48.55%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
5,100

Total Households

3

Average Household Size

$53,706

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Portola & University Mound, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Portola & University Mound. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

Property Listings

Search Homes

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