The city of San Mateo is a diverse and charming community just south of San Francisco. It is the largest city in San Mateo County and home to one of the most prominent suburban downtowns in the Bay Area.
With many of its buildings dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries, San Mateo is a historic California town featuring spacious ranch-style homes surrounded by the San Francisco Bay, towering oak trees, and numerous parks and outdoor spaces.
San Mateo Real Estate Insights
Neighbored by the renowned communities of Burlingame to the north and Belmont to the south, San Mateo is among the most traditional of the mid-Peninsula cities. It is one of the larger suburbs in the area and has a long history as well as a variety of neighborhoods.
San Mateo City’s real estate dates back to before World War II. Throughout many of the city’s historic neighborhoods, you will find homes in a range of styles and price points including sprawling hillside ranch homes and charming remodeled bungalows.
There is also plenty of new construction in San Mateo, including large contemporary homes, luxury condos, and townhomes. Bay Meadows, once home to the longest running racetrack in California, is now a hip urban village offering lively shops, eateries, biking trails and community parks just minutes from downtown San Mateo.
The median sales price of homes in San Mateo is $1,113,684 and the median list price per square foot is $814.
People and Lifestyle
Downtown San Mateo is a lively area lined with historic buildings, numerous entertainment options, and over 800 shops and restaurants including upscale shopping at the Hillsdale Shopping Mall. A pedestrian-friendly nook along 3rd and 4th avenues houses unique shops in a mix of modern and historic buildings including everything from florists to gift stores, clothing to jewelers, and even a variety of ethnic markets. A large 12-screen movie theater downtown offers families and couples the perfect place for a local night out.
The Caltrain station is also located downtown, making this community the perfect home to commuters looking for an escape from the bustle of San Francisco.
San Mateo also offers its residents ample green space and recreational opportunities. Central Park is the city’s signature park featuring tennis courts, picnic areas, a baseball field, a playground and a Japanese tea garden, while Beresford Park is another large space offering bocce ball courts and a skate plaza. Parkside Aquatic Park is located along the Bay and enables residents to take advantage of waterside amenities including swimming, volleyball, picnic areas with grills and play areas.
Residents enjoy access to 20 highly-regarded local schools in the San Mateo-Foster City School District, including Aubudon Elementary, Bayside S.T.E.M. Middle School, and San Mateo High School. Junipero Serra High School is a local private school located in the heart of the city that is home to notable alumni such as Tom Brady and Barry Bonds.
