If you’re looking for a neighborhood in Daly City that offers tranquil suburban charm with easy access to urban conveniences, Southern Hills may be your hidden gem. Nestled on the easternmost border of Daly City, Southern Hills offers diverse housing, family-friendly parks, and a warm sense of community, making it an ideal place for many types of residents—from young families to retired couples. This in-depth guide explores what it’s really like to call Southern Hills home.
The Community Vibe: Welcoming, Quiet, and Connected
Southern Hills has a friendly, almost small-town feel despite being steps from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco’s city life. Neighbors look out for one another, greet each other as they walk their dogs along streets like Lausanne Avenue or Gellert Boulevard, and often stop to chat by front yards or at community events.
The neighborhood is tucked between Daly City and the foot of San Bruno Mountain, resulting in a scenic, residential enclave. You'll notice a mix of longtime residents and newer arrivals drawn by the area’s peaceful reputation and convenient location.
Community events—be it block parties or holiday light competitions—are common, fostering camaraderie. You’re likely to see local families gathering at neighborhood parks, or retirees tending meticulously kept gardens.
Housing: Mid-Century Homes and Varied Architecture
Southern Hills stands out for its architectural cohesion and mid-century charm. Most homes here were constructed in the 1960s and 1970s, and you’ll find streets lined with single-family houses—many with front-facing garages, low-slung roofs, and large windows that make the most of the area’s panoramic vistas.
- Typical homes: 3–4 bedrooms, split-level or ranch-style
- Sizes range from 1,200 to over 2,000 square feet
- Many properties have private yards, perfect for children, gardening, or outdoor gatherings
Recent years have also seen tasteful updates—with some homes boasting modern upgrades while preserving their original character. Though you’ll find fewer apartments or condos compared to central Daly City, the trade-off is a quiet, low-density atmosphere.
Walkability and Daily Conveniences
One of the big questions prospective residents have is walkability. Southern Hills scores high for peaceful sidewalks and wide streets, but it’s worth noting that some areas have steeper hills. The neighborhood’s layout encourages walking, whether you’re strolling to local parks or taking in the sweeping views from South Hill Boulevard.
For daily essentials, the nearby Daly City Town Center and Serramonte Center malls offer a wide array of shops, restaurants, and cafes. While you’ll likely need a car for big grocery runs or major errands, you’ll enjoy short drives—usually under 10 minutes—to everything you need.
- Local dining favorites nearby: Koi Palace (for dim sum), In-N-Out Burger, and Pacific Supermarket
- Several coffee shops and boba tea spots close by on Gellert Blvd and Callan Blvd
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families are a cornerstone of Southern Hills. The area falls within the highly rated South San Francisco Unified School District and Jefferson Elementary School District. Nearby schools include:
- Skyline Elementary School (just east on Skyline Drive)
- Westborough Middle School
- Jefferson High School
Strong teacher involvement and engaged parent communities are highlights. Kids can be seen playing on front lawns or riding bikes on quieter residential streets like Lausanne Avenue and South Hill Boulevard.
Daycares, enrichment programs, and after-school activities are plentiful in the broader Daly City/South San Francisco area, making Southern Hills extremely family-friendly.
Parks and Green Spaces: Nature at Your Doorstep
One of the biggest perks of living in Southern Hills is the access to green space. Residents enjoy the proximity of several parks and recreation areas:
- Hillside Park – A beloved neighborhood fixture on Lausanne Avenue, with open lawns, playground structures, and walking paths. It’s a perfect spot for weekend picnics, dog walks, or unwinding with a book.
- San Bruno Mountain State & County Park – Just steps from the eastern edge of the neighborhood, offering winding hiking trails, beautiful wildflowers, and panoramic views all the way to downtown San Francisco and the Pacific Ocean.
- Playgrounds, basketball courts, and tot lots are sprinkled throughout the neighborhood, providing safe spaces for kids and families.
Safety: Peace of Mind
Safety is a top consideration for any potential mover, and Southern Hills delivers. It’s regarded as one of Daly City’s safer, quieter enclaves, thanks in part to its proximity to the San Bruno Mountain Park and limited-through-traffic design. Neighbors often mention the sense of security they feel walking at night or letting their kids play outside under watchful eyes.
Daly City Police regularly patrol the area, and an active neighborhood watch program keeps everyone informed about any local issues—though reported incidents tend to be rare.
Location and Proximity to Employment Centers
Southern Hills boasts perhaps one of the best commuter locations in Daly City. If you work in downtown San Francisco (about a 15-minute drive or quick BART ride from the Daly City or Colma stations), Silicon Valley, or even the Peninsula, you’ll appreciate easy freeway access—via I-280, Highway 101, and nearby BART.
Key conveniences:
- About 10 minutes to Daly City BART station (handy for SF commuters)
- Quick access to Highway 280 and 101 for Peninsula/tech jobs
- Close to major shopping, local gyms, and popular eateries
What Residents Love Most
Ask a longtime Southern Hills resident what keeps them rooted and you’ll hear several recurring themes:
- Breathtaking hillside views and fresh air
- The calm, community-oriented atmosphere
- Proximity to city amenities without city noise
- Friendly, invested neighbors who truly care about each other
- Beautiful walks under tall trees with San Francisco skyline peeks
It’s a place where many grow up, leave, and hope to return—or where newcomers quickly feel like part of the fabric.
Final Thoughts: Is Southern Hills Right for You?
Living in Southern Hills, Daly City, means embracing a peaceful, residential environment with natural beauty, excellent schools, and unbeatable Bay Area access. It’s the kind of neighborhood where neighbors become friends and where a sense of home is deeply felt, not just seen.
If you value comfort, community spirit, and convenience—without sacrificing green space or safety—Southern Hills just might be your perfect fit.