San Francisco is home to some of the priciest real estate in the world. In July 2024, a mansion at 2840 Broadway in Pacific Heights sold for $71 million, setting a new record as the city’s most expensive home ever sold. Purchased by Laurene Powell Jobs, this 17,286-square-foot estate showcases the city’s luxury market. This article dives into the details of this historic sale, other top home sales, key neighborhoods, and why San Francisco’s housing market remains so costly.
What Is the Most Expensive House in San Francisco?
The mansion at 2840 Broadway, sold for $71 million in July 2024, holds the title as San Francisco’s most expensive home. Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, bought this Pacific Heights estate in an off-market deal. Built in 1916, the 17,286-square-foot home features seven bathrooms and was renovated by architect Peter Marino. It offers panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, and Alcatraz. Architectural Digest called it “the most beautiful house in America.”
Top 5 Most Expensive Home Sales in San Francisco
Here are the top five most expensive homes sold in San Francisco, based on recent data:
- 2840 Broadway – $71 million (2024): A 17,286-square-foot Pacific Heights mansion with seven bathrooms and extensive renovations.
- 2799 Broadway – $29.15 million (2024): An 11,635-square-foot Pacific Heights home with seven bedrooms, nine bathrooms, and a rooftop terrace.
- 2990 Broadway – $26.5 million (2025): A 10,180-square-foot Pacific Heights mansion, sold below its $38 million asking price.
- 3630 Jackson Street – $24 million (2024): A six-bedroom, seven-bathroom Presidio Heights home near Presidio park.
- 2350 Broadway – $23.8 million (2024): A 9,079-square-foot Pacific Heights home built in 1900, sold up from $7.3 million in 2010.
Why Are San Francisco Homes So Expensive?
San Francisco’s high home prices are driven by several factors:
- Limited Land: The city’s geography, surrounded by water and hills, limits new construction.
- Tech Wealth: High-earning tech professionals fuel demand for luxury homes.
- Prime Location: Scenic views, cultural attractions, and proximity to Silicon Valley make the city desirable.
For more insights, read our article on Why Are Houses So Expensive in San Francisco?.
San Francisco’s Most Expensive Neighborhoods
The city’s priciest neighborhoods are known for luxury and exclusivity. Here are the top five:
- Pacific Heights: Median prices exceed $5 million, home to Billionaires’ Row.
- Presidio Heights: Around $4.5 million, known for historic estates and quiet streets.
- Sea Cliff: Median price around $6.3 million, offering coastal views.
- Russian Hill: Around $3 million, featuring trendy shops and bay views.
- Nob Hill: Around $2.5 million, known for historic charm and central location.
Current Luxury Market Trends
San Francisco’s luxury market remains strong, driven by wealth from tech and stock market gains. In 2024, homes priced above $5 million saw significant sales increases compared to 2023, according to Compass. However, some properties, like 2990 Broadway, sold below asking prices, showing buyer selectivity. Economic factors like tech layoffs and high interest rates may impact future sales, but limited supply keeps prices high.
For more on market trends, check out San Francisco Median House Price.
Notable Properties on the Market
Several luxury homes are currently listed, including the Grand Penthouse at 181 Fremont, offering nearly 7,000 square feet with views of all four Bay Area bridges. Other high-end listings in Pacific Heights and Sea Cliff continue to attract buyers, though some face challenges selling at their initial asking prices.
How Does the Average Home Price Compare?
As of June 2025, San Francisco’s median home price is about $1.5 million, according to Redfin. Luxury homes in top neighborhoods far exceed this, often selling for tens of millions. For a deeper look, read How Much Does the Average House Cost in San Francisco?.
FAQs
What is the most expensive house ever sold in San Francisco?
The mansion at 2840 Broadway, sold for $71 million in 2024, holds the record.
Why are Pacific Heights homes so expensive?
Limited supply, wealthy buyers, and prime views drive prices in this exclusive neighborhood.
Are San Francisco home prices dropping?
Luxury homes remain strong, but overall prices may soften due to economic factors. Read more in Are Housing Prices Dropping in San Francisco?.
What are the priciest neighborhoods in San Francisco?
Pacific Heights, Presidio Heights, Sea Cliff, Russian Hill, and Nob Hill top the list.
Conclusion
The $71 million sale of 2840 Broadway marks a milestone in San Francisco’s luxury real estate market. Neighborhoods like Pacific Heights and Sea Cliff continue to attract wealthy buyers, driven by scarcity and stunning views. As the market evolves, these properties highlight the city’s status as a hub for high-end living.