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Best Neighborhoods in Daly City for First-Time Homebuyers

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.

1. Serramonte

Serramonte is one of the most popular neighborhoods for first-time buyers because of its accessibility and amenities.

Why buyers love it:

  • Close to shopping and restaurants
  • Easy access to Interstate 280
  • Variety of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes
  • Convenient commute to San Francisco and the Peninsula

For buyers looking for lower-maintenance living, Serramonte offers several condo and townhome opportunities.

2. Westlake

Westlake is one of Daly City's most recognizable neighborhoods and offers classic mid-century homes with strong curb appeal.

Highlights include:

  • Established community
  • Shopping and dining nearby
  • Easy access to BART
  • Proximity to San Francisco

Many buyers appreciate Westlake's balance of suburban living and city convenience.

3. St. Francis Heights

St. Francis Heights offers larger homes and quiet residential streets while remaining close to shopping and transportation.

Why it's attractive:

  • Spacious homes
  • Family-friendly environment
  • Near Serramonte Center
  • Strong resale value

While prices can be higher than some other Daly City neighborhoods, buyers often get more square footage compared to San Francisco.

4. Broadmoor Border Area

The neighborhoods near Broadmoor offer a great combination of location and value.

Benefits include:

  • Close proximity to San Francisco
  • Charming single-family homes
  • Convenient transportation options
  • Established residential feel

Many first-time buyers target this area because of its accessibility and neighborhood character.

5. Original Daly City

For buyers seeking affordability, Original Daly City often provides some of the best opportunities.

Features include:

  • Diverse housing options
  • Strong community feel
  • Convenient BART access
  • More attainable price points compared to some neighboring areas

This neighborhood remains a popular choice for buyers looking to maximize value.

6. Southern Hills

Located near the San Francisco border, Southern Hills is often overlooked by first-time buyers.

Why consider it:

  • Convenient commute to San Francisco
  • Residential atmosphere
  • Potentially lower entry prices than some neighboring communities
  • Access to parks and outdoor space

Which Neighborhood Is Best?

The best neighborhood depends on your goals:

  • Best for commuters: Westlake and Southern Hills
  • Best for value: Original Daly City
  • Best for shopping and convenience: Serramonte
  • Best for larger homes: St. Francis Heights
  • Best mix of location and charm: Broadmoor border area

Final Thoughts

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®

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