Nestled on the San Francisco Peninsula, San Carlos, California, affectionately known as the “City of Good Living,” combines charm, convenience, and a strong sense of community. With top-rated schools, a vibrant downtown, and easy access to major tech hubs, San Carlos has become one of the Bay Area’s most desirable cities for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
A Bit of History and Location
San Carlos traces its origins to the 1700s when Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala anchored his ship, the San Carlos, in the Bay. Today, the city sits between Redwood City and Belmont, roughly 25 minutes south of San Francisco and 20 minutes north of San Jose, making it an ideal location for commuters. With a population of around 30,000 residents, San Carlos offers a tight-knit community feel while providing all the amenities of a modern city.
Neighborhoods and Housing Options
San Carlos features a mix of flats near downtown with treelined streets and charming bungalows, as well as hilly western neighborhoods boasting panoramic Bay Area views and luxury homes. The city offers housing for every lifestyle:
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Condos and Townhomes – Starter options under $1 million, ideal for first-time buyers or those seeking low-maintenance living.
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Single-Family Homes – Median price around $2.59 million, with properties ranging from cozy homes near El Camino Real to hillside estates in Britain Heights.
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Luxury and New Construction – Homes priced between $3–4.8 million, often featuring modern builds or premium tear-downs with high-end finishes.
Most homes in San Carlos are single-family, making it perfect for growing families. Prices vary based on size, location, and upgrades, with newer construction typically commanding a 10%+ premium over remodeled homes.
Education: Top-Rated Schools
Families are drawn to San Carlos for its exceptional schools. The district includes four main elementary schools rated 8–10/10, feeding into Tira Linda or Central Middle School (both 9/10). High school students typically attend Carlmont High School in nearby Belmont, also highly rated.
For private education, options like St. Charles School (K–8) provide strong academic programs and community involvement.
Downtown Life and Lifestyle Amenities
Downtown San Carlos is a vibrant hub full of locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and markets. Highlights include:
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Saffron Indian Restaurant – Michelin-recognized fine dining.
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The Town – Perfect for celebratory dinners.
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The Refuge – Casual pub with iconic pastrami sandwiches and burgers.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy parks like Burton Park, Eaton Park, and Big Canyon Park, as well as nearby trails and preserves. The city also boasts the Hiller Aviation Museum, a family favorite with historic aircraft and interactive exhibits.
Commuting and Connectivity
San Carlos is exceptionally well-connected. The downtown Caltrain station runs directly to San Francisco and San Jose. Major highways, Highway 101 and Interstate 280, make driving convenient for work or weekend getaways.
Featured Listing: Modern Luxury Condo
A standout property is 1501 Cherry Street, Unit 410, listed under $1.6 million. Built in 2022, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo offers 1,263 sq. ft. of modern living, two dedicated garage spaces (including EV charging), and smart home technology. Key features include:
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Expansive ceilings and wide-plank hardwood floors.
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Open-concept living, dining, and chef’s kitchen with Italian cabinetry.
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Primary suite with walk-in closet, spa-style bathroom, and private balcony.
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LEED Silver-certified building with rooftop terrace, bike room, and mountain views.
This unit exemplifies the modern lifestyle San Carlos offers — close to downtown, highly walkable, and ideal for both entertaining and everyday living.
Why Choose San Carlos?
San Carlos offers a rare combination of location, lifestyle, schools, and charm:
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Safe, scenic, and family-friendly neighborhoods.
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Access to top-rated public and private schools.
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Bustling downtown with dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
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Convenient commutes to San Francisco, San Jose, and major Peninsula tech hubs.
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Housing options for every stage of life, from condos to luxury estates.
Whether you’re seeking a cozy starter home, a family-friendly neighborhood, or a luxury estate with Bay Area views, San Carlos truly lives up to its title as the City of Good Living.