The United States / California / San Mateo




San Mateo offers a vibrant lifestyle with excellent schools and amenities, despite high living costs.


San Mateo, California: Key Information

  • San Mateo has a population of approximately 105,000 people, with a growth rate of about 2.5% over the last five years.
  • Located at a latitude of 37.5630° N and a longitude of 122.3255° W, you can find San Mateo on Google Maps at this link.
  • The nearest major city with an international airport is San Francisco, approximately 12 miles to the north, served by San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
  • The average house price in San Mateo is around $1.5 million, reflecting the competitive Bay Area real estate market.
  • Average rental prices for apartments in San Mateo are approximately $3,000 per month, varying by neighborhood and apartment size.

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Overview of San Mateo, California

San Mateo is a vibrant city located on the San Francisco Peninsula in the Bay Area of California. Known for its mild Mediterranean climate, this city is strategically situated between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, making it an attractive location for both tech professionals and families. The city is characterized by its diverse population, excellent public schools, and a wide range of amenities and recreational activities, which contribute to a high quality of life.

Brief History of San Mateo

San Mateo has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, when it was part of the Spanish mission system. It began to develop significantly in the late 19th century with the arrival of the railroad, which connected San Mateo to San Francisco and encouraged residential and commercial growth. Over the years, San Mateo has evolved into a dynamic city with a strong economy, bolstered by its proximity to major tech hubs. More about the city's history can be found here.

Top 5 Good Things About San Mateo

  • Location: San Mateo's central location provides easy access to both San Francisco and Silicon Valley, making it ideal for commuting and exploring the greater Bay Area.

  • Schools: The city is home to highly-rated public and private schools, making it a desirable place for families with children.

  • Parks and Recreation: San Mateo offers an abundance of parks and recreational facilities, including the beautiful Central Park and the Coyote Point Recreation Area.

  • Community and Culture: The city hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community.

  • Amenities: San Mateo has a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, with a bustling downtown area.

Top 5 Challenges in San Mateo

  • Cost of Living: Like much of the Bay Area, San Mateo has a high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing prices.

  • Traffic: Due to its location, traffic congestion can be a common issue, especially during peak commuting hours.

  • Earthquake Risk: Being in California, the city is susceptible to earthquakes, which is a concern for residents.

  • Lack of Affordable Housing: The demand for housing often outstrips supply, making it difficult for some to find affordable options.

  • Weather Fluctuations: While generally mild, the microclimates in the region can lead to unpredictable weather changes.

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Top 10 Things to Do in San Mateo, California

San Mateo is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Silicon Valley and offers a diverse range of activities and attractions. Whether you're a visitor or a resident, there's plenty to keep you entertained.

  • Coyote Point Recreation Area: This park offers scenic views of the San Francisco Bay, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a marina. It's perfect for a day of outdoor fun with family and friends. Learn More
  • Japanese Garden: Located within Central Park, this tranquil garden is a beautiful spot to unwind and enjoy nature. The garden features traditional Japanese landscaping, koi ponds, and a tea house. Learn More
  • Filoli Historic House and Garden: Just a short drive from San Mateo, Filoli is a stunning estate with beautiful gardens and a historic mansion. It's a great place to explore history and horticulture. Learn More
  • San Mateo County History Museum: This museum provides a glimpse into the local history and culture. It's located in the historic Redwood City courthouse and offers various exhibits and educational programs. Learn More
  • Downtown San Mateo: Explore the vibrant downtown area filled with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. It's a lively spot for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Learn More
  • Seal Point Park: This waterfront park offers walking and biking trails with views of the Bay. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll or an active day out. Learn More
  • Hiking in the Santa Cruz Mountains: The nearby Santa Cruz Mountains offer numerous hiking trails with beautiful scenery. It's a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area. Learn More
  • San Mateo Farmers' Market: Held at the College of San Mateo, this farmers' market offers a wide selection of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. Learn More
  • Beresford Park: This park features a community garden, playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas. It's a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Learn More
  • Hiller Aviation Museum: Located in nearby San Carlos, this museum features exhibits on the history of aviation and a collection of aircraft and flight simulators. Learn More

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Welcome to San Mateo, California!

San Mateo is a vibrant city in the heart of the San Francisco Peninsula, offering a blend of cultural diversity, a lively food scene, and plenty of recreational activities. It is a fantastic place to live, whether you're a young professional, a family, or a retiree. With its mild climate, beautiful parks, and proximity to both San Francisco and Silicon Valley, San Mateo provides a great balance of urban and suburban living.

What Locals Do on a Friday Night

San Mateo offers a variety of activities to enjoy on a Friday night. Here are some popular options:

  • Dining Out: Locals love to explore the diverse culinary scene in San Mateo, trying out new restaurants and revisiting favorites.
  • Movies: The Century 12 San Mateo offers a great place to catch the latest films in a comfortable setting.
  • Live Music: Venues like the Club Fox in nearby Redwood City often feature live performances from local and touring bands.
  • Pubs and Bars: There are several cozy pubs and bars where locals gather to unwind, such as The Swingin' Door and 3rd Avenue Sports Bar.
  • Bowling: Bel Mateo Bowl is a fun spot for a casual night of bowling with friends or family.

The 5 Best Restaurants in San Mateo

San Mateo's dining scene is diverse and delicious. Here are five top-rated restaurants:

Annual and Seasonal Events in San Mateo

San Mateo hosts a variety of events throughout the year that celebrate its cultural diversity and community spirit. Here are some notable ones:

  • San Mateo County Fair: Typically held in June, this fair features rides, food, and live entertainment.
  • Central Park Music Series: A summer concert series held in Central Park, offering free live music from various genres.
  • Bay Area Diwali Festival: Celebrating the Indian festival of lights, usually held in October, with music, dance, and food.
  • Japanese Cultural Festival: Celebrates Japanese culture with performances, crafts, and food, typically in September.
  • Holiday Festival of Dance: A December event showcasing local dance talent.

Languages Commonly Spoken in San Mateo

San Mateo is a linguistically diverse city. English is the primary language, but many residents also speak:

  • Spanish
  • Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese)
  • Tagalog
  • Japanese

Cultural and Ethnic Communities

San Mateo is home to a variety of cultural and ethnic communities that contribute to its rich social fabric:

  • Hispanic and Latino communities
  • Asian communities, including Chinese, Filipino, and Japanese
  • European ancestry groups, including Italian and Irish

Cultural and Arts Facilities

San Mateo offers several venues for those interested in the arts and culture:

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Crime Rate Overview

San Mateo is generally considered a safe city with a crime rate that is lower than the national average. It benefits from being part of the larger San Francisco Bay Area, which has a robust economy and generally lower crime rates compared to other urban areas in the United States. However, like any city, it does have areas where crime is more prevalent. Overall, the city's crime index suggests that it is safer than many other cities of a similar size.

Community Safety

The community in San Mateo is tight-knit and proactive when it comes to safety. Many neighborhoods have active community watch programs and local events that foster a sense of belonging and vigilance among residents. The city also invests in public amenities and community programs that contribute to a secure and welcoming environment. Residents often speak highly of the sense of community that exists, and many report feeling safe walking or biking around at most times of the day.

Areas with Higher Crime Rates

While San Mateo is largely safe, certain areas may experience higher crime rates, typically in neighborhoods that are more densely populated or in transitional phases. The downtown area, due to its concentration of businesses and nightlife, may have a slightly higher incidence of crime, usually related to petty theft or vehicle break-ins. However, these incidents are generally isolated, and the city is proactive in addressing safety concerns as they arise.

Property Crime

Property crime in San Mateo, which includes burglary, larceny, and vehicle theft, is more common than violent crime. This is consistent with trends seen across many suburban and urban areas. The local police department works diligently to reduce property crime through community engagement, neighborhood watch programs, and technological interventions like surveillance cameras in public spaces.

Local Policing

The San Mateo Police Department is known for its community-oriented approach to policing. They prioritize transparency and communication with residents, often hosting town hall meetings and outreach programs. The department is well-staffed and equipped, allowing for prompt responses to incidents and a visible police presence in the community. Their efforts in crime prevention and community engagement have been positively received by residents.

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Major Neighborhoods in San Mateo, California

Downtown San Mateo

Downtown San Mateo is the city's bustling heart, known for its vibrant, urban atmosphere. It boasts a rich history with many historic buildings, reflecting its development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The area is a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, with a mix of independent boutiques and popular retail chains. Noteworthy spots include the San Mateo Central Park, a popular area for recreation and events.

View on Google Maps

Baywood-Aragon

Baywood-Aragon is a picturesque neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets and charming, historic homes, many of which date back to the early 20th century. This area offers a suburban feel despite its proximity to downtown. It's popular with families due to its excellent schools, such as Baywood Elementary, and its close-knit community vibe. The neighborhood is mostly residential, with some local shops and eateries.

View on Google Maps

Beresford Park

Beresford Park is a family-friendly neighborhood centered around its namesake park, which provides ample recreational activities. The area is known for its mid-century homes, offering a mix of single-family houses and some apartment complexes. It has a suburban feel with good access to local amenities, including schools and shopping centers. Beresford Park is particularly appealing to those seeking a balance between city and suburban living.

View on Google Maps

Hillsdale

Hillsdale is a vibrant neighborhood known for the Hillsdale Shopping Center, which provides a wide range of retail and dining options. The area has a mix of residential types, including single-family homes, apartments, and condos, making it appealing to a diverse population. The neighborhood is well-served by public transportation, including the Hillsdale Caltrain station, which offers convenient access to Silicon Valley and San Francisco.

View on Google Maps

Real Estate Overview

Downtown San Mateo

The real estate in Downtown San Mateo primarily consists of apartments and condos, with a few historic homes. The area is relatively more expensive compared to other neighborhoods in San Mateo, reflecting its urban appeal and amenities. Over the past decade, the prices have steadily increased, driven by demand for urban living near major employment centers.

Baywood-Aragon

Baywood-Aragon is known for its charming single-family homes and spacious lots, making it one of the more desirable and expensive areas in San Mateo. The real estate market here has seen significant appreciation over the last decade, partly due to the neighborhood's historical character and excellent schools.

Beresford Park

Real estate in Beresford Park is characterized by mid-century single-family homes, with some newer constructions. The prices are moderate compared to Downtown and Baywood-Aragon, offering good value for families looking for a suburban environment. The area has seen steady growth in property values, with newer developments contributing to this trend.

Hillsdale

Hillsdale offers a mix of real estate options, including single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. The neighborhood is more affordable than Baywood-Aragon, attracting a diverse demographic. Property values have increased over the decade, reflective of general trends in the Bay Area real estate market.

Development and Rental Market Trends

In recent years, San Mateo has seen a mix of new developments and the preservation of older homes, particularly in neighborhoods like Beresford Park and Hillsdale. This blend of old and new offers a range of housing options.

Rental prices in San Mateo have risen, consistent with broader regional trends in the Bay Area. The demand for rental properties remains high, driven by the city's strategic location between San Francisco and Silicon Valley. Downtown and Hillsdale tend to have higher rental prices due to their convenience and amenities, while Beresford Park offers more affordable rental options.

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Gyms and Fitness Facilities in San Mateo

San Mateo offers a variety of gyms and fitness facilities to help you stay active and healthy. Whether you're into traditional gym workouts, high-intensity interval training, or specialized fitness classes, you'll find options to suit your needs.

  • 24 Hour Fitness - A popular gym chain offering a wide range of equipment, classes, and amenities. Google Maps | Website
  • Orangetheory Fitness - Known for its group interval training sessions that focus on endurance, strength, and power. Google Maps | Website
  • CrossFit San Mateo - Offers high-intensity crossfit workouts with a supportive community environment. Google Maps | Website
  • Hot Yoga Plus - Provides a range of yoga classes including hot yoga, which is great for flexibility and detoxification. Google Maps | Website
  • Bay Area Fencing Club - Offers fencing classes and open sessions for beginners and experienced fencers. Google Maps | Website

Sports Facilities in San Mateo

San Mateo is equipped with diverse sports facilities catering to enthusiasts of all kinds, from swimming and hockey to golf and tennis. Here’s a rundown of the notable sporting venues in the area.

  • San Mateo Athletic Club - Offers a state-of-the-art swimming pool and a variety of athletic programs. Google Maps | Website
  • Poplar Creek Golf Course - An 18-hole public golf course offering a challenging and scenic golfing experience. Google Maps | Website
  • Ice Center at San Mateo - Offers public skating sessions and hockey leagues for all ages. Google Maps | Website
  • Central Park Tennis Courts - Provides several well-maintained tennis courts available for public use. Google Maps | Website
  • Beresford Recreation Center - Features facilities for a variety of sports, including basketball and racquetball. Google Maps | Website

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Overview of San Mateo School Districts

San Mateo, California, is primarily served by the San Mateo-Foster City School District for elementary and middle schools and the San Mateo Union High School District for high schools. The area is known for its diverse educational opportunities, with many families appreciating the quality of local schools. While most educational needs can be met within San Mateo, some families may opt for specialized programs or private schooling in nearby cities like Palo Alto or San Francisco. The city’s proximity to these larger urban centers offers expanded educational and extracurricular options without the need for significant travel.

San Mateo-Foster City School District

Laurel Elementary School

  • Grades: Kindergarten to 5th
  • Activities & Sports: Offers a variety of extracurricular programs including music and art.
  • Community Perception: Highly regarded for its nurturing environment and strong academic programs.
  • Languages: Spanish language classes available.
  • Address: 316 36th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403
  • Website: https://laurelschool.smfc.k12.ca.us
  • Google Maps: 316 36th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403

Abbott Middle School

  • Grades: 6th to 8th
  • Activities & Sports: Known for strong athletic programs including basketball and soccer.
  • Community Perception: Recognized for its commitment to student development and engagement.
  • Languages: Offers courses in Spanish and Mandarin.
  • Address: 600 36th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403
  • Website: https://abbott.smfc.k12.ca.us
  • Google Maps: 600 36th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403

San Mateo Union High School District

Aragon High School

  • Grades: 9th to 12th
  • Activities & Sports: Offers a wide range of sports, including football and swimming, and has a strong performing arts program.
  • Community Perception: Known for its academic rigor and vibrant school spirit.
  • Languages: Spanish, French, and Mandarin are offered.
  • Address: 900 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo, CA 94402
  • Website: https://aragon.schoolloop.com
  • Google Maps: 900 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo, CA 94402

San Mateo High School

  • Grades: 9th to 12th
  • Activities & Sports: Offers a comprehensive athletics program and an award-winning drama department.
  • Community Perception: Celebrated for its inclusive environment and strong academic offerings.
  • Languages: Offers Spanish, French, and Chinese.
  • Address: 506 North Delaware Street, San Mateo, CA 94401
  • Website: https://sanmateohigh.org
  • Google Maps: 506 North Delaware Street, San Mateo, CA 94401

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Healthcare Overview in San Mateo, California

San Mateo offers a robust healthcare system with both private and public options, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care. The city is part of the larger San Francisco Bay Area, which provides access to world-class healthcare facilities. While there are ample healthcare options within San Mateo itself, the proximity to San Francisco and Palo Alto expands the available choices significantly, especially for specialized care.

Recent expansions in healthcare facilities have improved access and reduced wait times, though some residents still travel to nearby cities for certain specialized services. The community generally enjoys a high standard of healthcare, but like many urban areas, it faces challenges such as managing healthcare costs and maintaining adequate staffing levels.

Hospitals and Emergency Services

Family and Specialist Medicine

San Mateo has a good number of family doctors and general practitioners available, which makes it relatively easy for families to find primary care providers. The city is home to several medical groups and clinics that cater to family medicine, providing comprehensive care for all ages.

For specialist medicine, San Mateo residents sometimes travel to nearby cities, such as San Francisco or Palo Alto, particularly for highly specialized care. However, the presence of the Mills-Peninsula Medical Center and other facilities ensures that many specialties are available locally, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.

Paramedical Services

  • Massage Therapy: Numerous spas and wellness centers offer massage therapy, including places like San Mateo Medical Spa and Relaxed Spa.
  • Physiotherapy: Centers such as San Mateo Physical Therapy provide rehabilitation services for sports injuries and post-operative recovery.
  • Podiatry: Specialists like San Mateo Podiatry Group offer treatments for foot and ankle conditions.
  • Chiropractic Services: Facilities such as San Mateo Chiropractic offer spinal adjustments and wellness care.

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San Mateo, California: Local Job Market Overview

San Mateo, situated in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, offers a vibrant job market with a mix of opportunities across various industries. It's a strategic location with access to some of the world's leading companies and a diverse range of sectors.

Major Industries

  • Technology: San Mateo is part of the Silicon Valley region, which is globally renowned for its tech industry. Many tech startups and established companies have operations here.
  • Healthcare: With facilities like San Mateo Medical Center, the healthcare sector is a significant employer in the area.
  • Finance: The proximity to San Francisco, a major financial hub, means there are numerous opportunities in banking and financial services.
  • Retail and Consumer Services: With a thriving local economy, retail and consumer services play a vital role in employment.
  • Biotechnology: The Bay Area is known for its biotech sector, with several companies and research facilities nearby.

Major Employers

  • Gilead Sciences: A leading biopharmaceutical company with a significant presence in the area.
  • Franklin Templeton Investments: A global investment management organization headquartered in San Mateo.
  • Sony Interactive Entertainment: Known for the PlayStation brand, with offices in nearby Foster City.
  • Visa Inc.: Though headquartered in Foster City, Visa is a major employer for residents in the region.

Commuter Community

San Mateo is a commuter-friendly city, well-connected to major urban centers like San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose. Many residents commute to these cities for work, thanks to excellent public transportation options, including Caltrain and major highways.

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