Daly City Content Brooke Lau June 19, 2026
Daly City has long been one of the most popular entry points into Bay Area homeownership. While it's no longer "cheap," it often offers more value than neighboring San Francisco, making it attractive for first-time buyers looking for space, convenience, and long-term investment potential.
Here are some of the best Daly City neighborhoods for first-time buyers in 2026.
Serramonte is one of the most popular neighborhoods for first-time buyers because of its accessibility and amenities.
Why buyers love it:
For buyers looking for lower-maintenance living, Serramonte offers several condo and townhome opportunities.
Westlake is one of Daly City's most recognizable neighborhoods and offers classic mid-century homes with strong curb appeal.
Highlights include:
Many buyers appreciate Westlake's balance of suburban living and city convenience.
St. Francis Heights offers larger homes and quiet residential streets while remaining close to shopping and transportation.
Why it's attractive:
While prices can be higher than some other Daly City neighborhoods, buyers often get more square footage compared to San Francisco.
The neighborhoods near Broadmoor offer a great combination of location and value.
Benefits include:
Many first-time buyers target this area because of its accessibility and neighborhood character.
For buyers seeking affordability, Original Daly City often provides some of the best opportunities.
Features include:
This neighborhood remains a popular choice for buyers looking to maximize value.
Located near the San Francisco border, Southern Hills is often overlooked by first-time buyers.
Why consider it:
The best neighborhood depends on your goals:
Daly City remains one of the most attractive markets for first-time buyers who want to stay close to San Francisco without paying San Francisco prices. With strong transportation options, diverse neighborhoods, and a variety of housing styles, there's a neighborhood to fit almost every buyer's needs.
Whether you're looking for a condo, townhome, or single-family home, Daly City continues to offer opportunities for first-time buyers entering the Bay Area market.
— Brooke Lau, SF Bay Area Realtor®
Buyer-Focused
If you have been searching for a home in San Francisco, you may have come across the term TIC.
Buyer-Focused
Buying a condo in San Francisco can be a great way to own a home in the city, but there is more to evaluate than the unit itself.
Buyer-Focused
Buying a fixer-upper in the San Francisco Bay Area can be an opportunity to buy into a neighborhood you might otherwise be priced out of, create a home that fits your … Read more
Buyer-Focused
Buying a home in the San Francisco Bay Area isn't simply about choosing a city. It's about finding the right balance between budget, commute, lifestyle, space, and lon… Read more
Buyer-Focused
If you have a $1 million budget for a home in the San Francisco Bay Area, where you choose to live can make a significant difference in what that budget looks like.
Pacifica Content
Pacifica is known for its coastal scenery, beaches, hiking trails, and relaxed community feel. But if you’re considering moving here, one of the most important things … Read more
Buyer-Focused
Buying your first home is a big step, and buying in Pacifica comes with its own considerations. From understanding your budget and financing options to evaluating coas… Read more
Buyer-Focused
San Francisco may be a small city geographically, but each neighborhood can feel like its own little world.
Buyer-Focused
Buying your first home is exciting, but buying in the San Francisco Bay Area can feel especially complicated.
Get assistance in determining current property value, crafting a competitive offer, writing and negotiating a contract, and much more. Contact me today.