Welcome to San Mateo
Perfect weather, ocean views, and a buzzing downtown area.
San Mateo has been steadily growing over the last few decades, large thanks to its proximity to Silicon Valley. Big employers like Google and Facebook mean the area has one of the nation's lowest unemployment rates and highest average incomes. The population growth has also brought in a lot of new shopping, dining, and entertainment options, primarily in San Mateo's downtown, giving the area a buzzing atmosphere. It also means residents don't have to travel far to enjoy world-class cuisine and premium shopping.
You'll find many styles of homes in San Mateo, depending on which neighborhoods you look in. Baywood has spacious homes set on large lots, while Hillsdale offers smaller homes perfect for those just getting onto the property ladder or opting to downsize. No matter which neighborhood you choose, you'll benefit from San Mateo's excellent transportation links. Not only are you well connected via Highway 101 and the 92, but you can also hop on Caltrain to reach the rest of the Bay Area and leave your car at home.
If you've been dreaming of an idyllic California lifestyle, San Mateo is the place for you. It has perfect weather, a bustling downtown area, and is only 30 minutes from San Francisco and San Jose. No wonder this Bay Area city regularly appears on lists of the best places to live in the United States!
What to Love
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A busy downtown area with excellent restaurants and shopping
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Centrally located with easy access to all major highways and Caltrain
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Great views from the hills and right next to the ocean
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Perfect weather all year long
Local Lifestyle
The San Mateo lifestyle is quintessentially Californian. There is a friendly, laid-back vibe to this town. Not only do San Mateo residents have access to great shopping and dining downtown, but they also enjoy some of the best natural areas in California. You'll find your neighbors walking their dogs at Seal Point Harbor Dog Park, boating in the harbor, or spending time on the playground in Central Park. With year-round sunshine and mild temperatures, being outdoors is a way of life here.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
In San Mateo, you'll find many of the same well-loved brands located in San Francisco and surrounding areas. Hillsdale Shopping Center on El Camino Real is a massive indoor mall with popular stores like Nordstrom, Apple, and West Elm. Venture downtown to find unique locations like Backhaus Bakery. Artisan bread and pastries are made fresh in the bakery's flagship store, and you'll want to stop by on the weekends to try their signature mini chocolate sourdough. For dinner out with the family, head to Pancho Villa Taqueria. The Mexican eatery serves up mouth-watering burritos and tacos in a casual, diner-style venue. For date night, book a table at Pausa Bar & Cookery. They serve authentic Italian dishes and wood-fired pizzas with a superb cocktail menu.
Things to Do
San Mateo residents enjoy festivals, cultural events, and holiday fairs year round, so prepare for a packed events calendar. In the summer, be sure to check out Music in the Park in San Mateo Central Park. In the winter, you can get into the festive spirit on the park's ice rink. Central Park is also home to the Japanese Garden, a serene space with a koi pond and teahouse. The San Mateo County Event Center hosts the annual county fair with dozens of rides, food stalls, displays, and live music events. Even the weekly Farmers Market at the College of San Mateo is a can't-miss event, with its vast selection of locally grown produce and freshly made baked goods and treats.
Schools
The San Mateo-Foster County School District serves the city of San Mateo.
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Baywood Elementary School, Grades K-5, top 10% of California schools for overall test scores
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Aragon High School, Grades 9-12, nationally recognized as a top public high school