When it comes to choosing the best place to live, the definition of “best” can vary widely. On the San Francisco Peninsula, a region known for its diversity, the options range from affordable suburbs to ultra-luxury enclaves. If you’re planning to settle in San Mateo County, this guide will help you navigate the housing market, explore the neighborhoods, and find a location that suits your lifestyle.
Affordable Gems: South San Francisco and San Bruno
For those entering the San Mateo County housing market, South San Francisco and San Bruno offer excellent opportunities. These cities provide a suburban lifestyle with urban convenience, close to downtown San Francisco and tech hubs like Palo Alto and Menlo Park.
- Home Prices: Median prices are $1.3M in South San Francisco and $1.4M in San Bruno for homes averaging 1,300-1,500 sq. ft.
- Lifestyle Highlights: Access to outdoor activities at San Bruno Mountain State Park and Pacifica State Beach, plus a mild Mediterranean climate.
- Schools: Families benefit from well-rated schools like El Camino High and Cappuccino High.
- Amenities: A lively dining scene with local favorites like Tomato Town and Brewhouse.
Mid-Range Neighborhoods: Millbrae, San Mateo, and Redwood City
For a balance of amenities and affordability, Millbrae, San Mateo, and Redwood City offer slightly larger homes and enhanced school districts.
- Home Prices: Median prices hover around $2M with homes averaging 1,600-1,900 sq. ft.
- Key Features:
- Millbrae: A transit hub with BART and Caltrain access, perfect for commuters.
- San Mateo: Bustling downtown with dining and shopping along El Camino Real.
- Redwood City: Vibrant community with major employers like Oracle and a charming town square.
- Schools: Top-rated districts including Aragon High in San Mateo.
Upscale Suburbs: Burlingame and San Carlos
For families seeking premium amenities and a strong community feel, Burlingame and San Carlos are top choices.
- Home Prices: Starting at $2.3M in San Carlos and $2.6M in Burlingame.
- Features:
- Burlingame: Known for its boutique shops, restaurants, and community events on Burlingame Avenue.
- San Carlos: A family-friendly hub with a popular downtown on Laurel Street.
- Schools: Excellent districts featuring Burlingame High and Carlmont High.
Luxury Living: Menlo Park, Hillsborough, and Woodside
For those seeking exclusivity and privacy, these neighborhoods represent the pinnacle of luxury.
- Home Prices:
- Menlo Park: $3.3M for 2,000 sq. ft.
- Hillsborough: $4.5M+ for grand estates.
- Woodside: $3M+ for ultra-private homes.
- Key Attractions:
- Menlo Park: Home to Meta and top schools like Las Lomitas.
- Hillsborough: Known for sprawling lots and grand estates.
- Woodside: A rural retreat near Silicon Valley with vast properties.
Elite Tier: Palo Alto, Los Altos, and Atherton
If exclusivity and prestige are your priorities, these cities are the crown jewels of the Peninsula.
- Home Prices:
- Palo Alto: $3.5M for 1,900 sq. ft.
- Los Altos: $4.2M for 2,200 sq. ft.
- Atherton: $7.1M for 4,100 sq. ft., the most exclusive zip code in the country.
- Highlights:
- Palo Alto: Tech central with upscale shopping and dining.
- Los Altos: A charming downtown village with excellent schools.
- Atherton: Luxurious estates with high appreciation potential.
Find Your Perfect Spot
Whether you’re seeking an affordable suburban retreat, a family-friendly mid-range neighborhood, or an ultra-luxurious lifestyle, the San Francisco Peninsula has it all. Each area offers unique benefits, from great schools to proximity to Silicon Valley, outdoor recreation, and urban amenities.
If you’re ready to make your move, I’d love to help you find your dream home. Email me at milana@milanaostroy.com to get started. And don’t forget to check out my other videos for more insider tips on life and real estate on the Peninsula.
