Atherton

 

The stunning and secluded rural community of Atherton is one of the United States’ most affluent places and attracts some of the biggest names in tech due to its proximity to Silicon Valley.

This incredibly prestigious community has a household median income in excess of $250,000, making Atherton’s residents the highest earning of any community in the entire United States. Sprawling lots lie hidden behind towering greenery and the neighborhood exudes a tranquil rural character, despite lying within 15 minutes’ drive of Silicon Valley and 45 minutes from the heart of San Francisco.

Atherton is a calming escape with a strict prohibition on commercial activity within the neighborhood. It is easy to see why major tech names are drawn to this private enclave of sprawling properties that provides a true getaway from the bustle of modern life.

Atherton’s incredible residences are situated on large lots complete with outdoor facilities including state-of-the-art tennis courts and expansive swimming pools. Atherton’s enormous lots often span several acres, providing for some of the Bay Area’s most spacious residences. Properties here are some of the most sought-after in the world and the area’s incredibly wealthy residents spare no expense in turning Atherton’s secluded private plots into magnificent custom-built dream homes. 

There is a notable range of architectural styles in Atherton, ranging from sprawling Mediterranean-style villas and classic English mansions to palatial residences modeled after Versailles and bold modern designs created by some of the world’s most renowned contemporary architects. Custom design features are limited only by residents’ imagination, with homes featuring impressive bespoke additions that include media rooms, full-sized gyms, antique fireplaces, interior elevators, and enormous garages for showcasing spectacular car collections.

With sprawling homes and surroundings covering just six square miles, Atherton’s exclusivity creates an insatiable demand for its luxurious homes from buyers across the world. Multi-million dollar asking prices are the norm for this incredibly upscale community, while some of the most expansive properties are worth tens of million.

Arguably the United States’ most exclusive and sought-after community, Atherton is home to just 7000 residents, which includes some major players from nearby Silicon Valley. Tech billionaires who have bought property in Atherton include Microsoft’s Paul Allen, Google’s Eric Schmidt, Facebook’s Sheryl Sandberg and HP’s Meg Whitman.

Atherton’s residents live on expansive estates nestled within a dense canopy of trees including bays, cedars, pines, redwoods, and a range of oaks. This relaxed rustic setting provides Atherton’s high-profile residents with privacy and seclusion, while the flat open plains on which it lies provide the perfect setting for engaging in outdoor activities and equestrian pursuits.

There are a number of well-regarded schools located in the vicinity, including the private Sacred Heart and Menlo School. Another Atherton institution, the Menlo Country Club, provides first-class stables and riding facilities, as well as a clubhouse and tennis courts.