San Mateo County: Luxury Living with Unparalleled Views and Lifestyle
San Mateo County is more than just a hub for tech innovation—it’s a destination for luxurious living, offering breathtaking views and vibrant communities. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, a family-friendly neighborhood, or an architectural masterpiece, this region has something for everyone. Let’s explore the hidden gems that make San Mateo County a top choice for discerning buyers.
Hillsborough: The Epitome of Elegance and Serenity
Hillsborough offers sprawling estates, unparalleled privacy, and some of the most stunning views in California.
- Neighborhood Spotlight: Tobin Clark Estates
- Known as the “Top of the World,” Tobin Clark Estates boasts panoramic views of the Bay Area and San Francisco’s iconic skyline.
- Homes: Averaging 5,000 sq. ft., built between the 1970s and 2000s, with modern amenities and expansive outdoor spaces.
- Median Price: $4.1M as of August 2024.
- Insider Tip: Explore homes along Tobin Clark Drive for the most breathtaking vistas.
- Neighborhood Spotlight: Hillsborough Heights
- Elevated properties with sweeping Bay views and tree-covered canyons.
- Features: Luxurious outdoor areas perfect for gatherings and serene living.
- Accessibility: Quick commutes to San Francisco and Silicon Valley via major highways.
Who’s It For? Hillsborough is ideal for high-net-worth families, privacy seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Its prestigious homes, top-rated schools, and tranquil environment create an unmatched lifestyle.
The Highlands: A Mid-Century Modern Oasis
Nestled in San Mateo’s Western Hills, the Highlands offers distinctive mid-century modern architecture and breathtaking outdoor access.
- Iconic Homes: Designed by Joseph Eichler, featuring open floor plans and floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Median Price: $2.5M as of November 2024.
- Views: Sweeping scenes of the San Francisco Bay and Cahill Ridge.
- Unique Perks: A microclimate with cooler temperatures and community amenities like pools and tennis courts.
- Insider Tip: Preserve the authentic Eichler design to enhance value and maintain architectural integrity.
Who’s It For? The Highlands is perfect for those who value unique architecture, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community.
Sugarloaf: Nature Meets Luxury
Located on San Mateo’s hilly western edge, Sugarloaf combines upscale living with stunning natural surroundings.
- Homes: Spacious properties, often updated with modern finishes, built between the 1940s and 1960s.
- Median Price: $2.2M.
- Features: Direct access to Laurelwood Park, hiking trails, and serene open spaces.
- Insider Tip: Look for properties higher up on the hills for the best views.
Who’s It For? Affluent professionals and families seeking a blend of luxury, nature, and proximity to urban amenities will find Sugarloaf a perfect match.
Why San Mateo County?
From Hillsborough’s grandeur to Sugarloaf’s tranquility, San Mateo County offers a unique lifestyle that caters to diverse needs. Whether you’re drawn to panoramic views, architectural charm, or community vibes, there’s a neighborhood here for you.
Ready to Find Your Dream Home?
Finding the perfect home is about more than just a property—it’s about choosing a lifestyle and a community that aligns with your vision. With over 20 years of experience in the San Francisco Peninsula real estate market, I’m here to help you navigate your options and find the home that inspires and rejuvenates.
📩 Email me at milana@milanaostroy.com or call to start your journey. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Stay tuned for more insights on San Mateo County’s incredible neighborhoods, and don’t miss my next video diving deeper into the pros and cons of Hillsborough. See you soon!
While San Francisco offers a unique urban experience, many residents face growing concerns:
- Safety Concerns
- San Francisco’s crime rate is 76% higher than the national average, with increasing reports of theft, break-ins, and violent incidents.
- Iconic areas like Union Square have seen a steep decline in retail operations due to safety concerns, impacting the city’s economy and vibrancy.
- Homelessness Crisis
- The Bay Area has experienced a 35% increase in homelessness since 2019, affecting the quality of life for residents.
- Housing Stress
- High housing costs often mean smaller homes with limited outdoor space. The median home price in San Francisco is $1.3M, but finding anything close to 2,000 sq. ft. is rare.
- Parking and Traffic Woes
- Daily parking struggles and a high rate of car break-ins make owning a car a challenge, even in residential neighborhoods.
These issues have led many residents to seek safer, more spacious, and family-friendly environments.
Why San Mateo County is the Perfect Alternative
San Mateo County offers a refreshing change for those looking to escape the challenges of urban living without giving up access to culture, amenities, and job opportunities.
1. More Space and Better Housing Options
- The median home price in San Mateo County is around $1.6M, offering larger homes, bigger backyards, and features like pools and decks—amenities often missing in San Francisco.
- Cities like Daly City and San Bruno provide homes with yards at prices comparable to a San Francisco condo.
2. A Safe and Family-Friendly Environment
- San Mateo County is known for its top-rated public schools and strong sense of community.
- Towns like Burlingame, Hillsborough, and San Carlos are ideal for families, offering a peaceful suburban feel with excellent schools and parks.
3. A Vibrant Lifestyle
- The peninsula boasts world-class dining, shopping, and outdoor activities.
- Beaches: Half Moon Bay, Montara State Beach, and Pescadero State Beach offer stunning coastal escapes.
- Hiking and Parks: Endless trails and parks, such as those in Redwood City and Woodside, provide breathtaking backdrops for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Ideal Weather
- While San Francisco is often wrapped in fog, the peninsula enjoys sunny skies and mild temperatures year-round, perfect for outdoor living.
5. Convenient Access to San Francisco and Silicon Valley
- Living on the peninsula means shorter commutes to Silicon Valley tech hubs like Google, Facebook, and Apple.
- With easy access to highways 101 and 280, residents can reach San Francisco in 15-30 minutes, making it possible to enjoy city life without living in the city.
Top Towns in San Mateo County
- Burlingame
- Vibrant downtown areas with boutique shops, restaurants, and community events.
- Average home prices: $2.5M, with options ranging from charming bungalows to luxurious estates.
- Hillsborough
- Known for its spacious estates and top-rated schools.
- A tranquil retreat with lush, tree-lined streets and exclusive amenities like the Burlingame Country Club.
- Average home prices: $5M+, with some estates exceeding $10M.
- San Carlos
- A lively, family-friendly community with a strong sense of belonging.
- Highlights include farmers markets, parks, and a bustling downtown on Laurel Street.
- Average home prices: $2.2M.
Why the Peninsula Stands Out
The peninsula isn’t just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Residents enjoy the perfect balance of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Whether it’s the vibrant community festivals, top-tier schools, or the opportunity to have more space and privacy, San Mateo County offers a unique blend of comfort, luxury, and practicality.
Make Your Move
Are you ready to trade the challenges of city life for the peace, space, and quality of life that San Mateo County offers? With over 20 years of experience, I’ve helped countless families and investors find their dream homes on the peninsula. Let me help you make your next big move stress-free and rewarding.
📩 Email me at milana@milanaostroy.com or call me to start your journey.
Check out my next video for a deeper dive into Hillsborough, one of the peninsula’s most coveted neighborhoods.
San Mateo County is waiting to welcome you home—let’s find your perfect place together.
