Communities

San Bruno

San Bruno: A Vibrant City with Easy Access to Outdoor Activities and San Francisco

San Bruno, once a stop on the road between San Jose and San Francisco and renowned for the Tanforan horse racing track, experienced significant growth after World War II when its western hills saw substantial expansion. Today, San Bruno is a city on the rise, attracting homebuyers with its vibrant atmosphere, diversity, and convenient location. The housing options in San Bruno are diverse, ranging from charming turn-of-the-century cottages to mid-century subdivisions and modern condominium buildings.

The downtown area of San Bruno features a variety of mom-and-pop shops and restaurants, creating a lively and welcoming environment. Additionally, the city is home to the Bay Area’s only casino, the well-known Artichoke Joe’s. For commuters, San Bruno offers an excellent transportation system, with BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) providing a stress-free 20-minute ride to San Francisco’s Financial District. This accessibility makes San Bruno an appealing choice for those working in the city but seeking a more suburban or relaxed lifestyle.

San Bruno also boasts natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The rolling hills in the western part of the city offer ample protected open spaces, perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature. Residents can easily access these scenic areas and take advantage of the pleasant climate for outdoor activities. Additionally, San Bruno benefits from its location with an easy freeway commute to Silicon Valley, making it an attractive option for professionals working in the tech industry.

With its rich history, convenient transportation, diverse housing options, and access to outdoor activities, San Bruno has become a thriving city that appeals to a wide range of residents. Whether it’s exploring the downtown area, enjoying the open spaces, or commuting to nearby employment hubs, San Bruno offers a well-rounded and desirable living experience.

42,957

Population

$1.41M

MEDIAN SALE PRICE

8,849

HOMES

$1.44M

AVERAGE SALE PRICE

1M - 2M

PRICE RANGE

Pricing data based on single-family homes

Key features

house-modern

Diverse housing

A varied assortment of housing options, spanning from classic pre-war bungalows to modern subdivisions built after 2000.

railroad-train

Easy commute

A hassle-free commute to San Francisco, whether by car, CalTrain, or BART.

biking-person

Outdoor activities

Convenient proximity to hiking, biking, and various outdoor recreational destinations.

Close to airport

Close proximity to San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

San Bruno Neighborhoods

Bayhill: A Commercial Neighborhood with Modern Office Parks and Convenient Amenities

Located in the center of San Bruno, Bayhill is a commercial neighborhood primarily known for its modern office parks. It is a bustling area that caters to the business community, offering a range of office spaces for high-profile companies, including YouTube and others. The neighborhood is bordered by freeways on two sides, with the 380 to the north and 280 to the west. To the south lies San Bruno Avenue, and to the east is El Camino Real. In addition to its office parks, Bayhill is home to the Bayhill Shopping Center, which provides convenient amenities for both residents and workers in the area. The shopping center features a variety of restaurants, shops, including a Starbucks, and a Molly Stone's grocery store. This allows individuals to take care of their daily needs without having to travel far. While Bayhill itself is primarily a commercial district, it has a neighboring residential area called Mills Park, which borders the Bayhill neighborhood at San Bruno Avenue. The presence of the Bayhill Shopping Center makes it convenient for residents of Mills Park to access various retail and dining options. Overall, Bayhill serves as a central hub for commercial activity in San Bruno, housing modern office spaces and providing a range of amenities through the Bayhill Shopping Center. Its strategic location and convenient access to major freeways make it an attractive destination for businesses and offer convenience to nearby residential areas.

Belle Air Park: A Friendly, Working-Class Subdivision with Convenient Amenities

Belle Air Park is San Bruno's second-oldest subdivision, characterized by its friendly and working-class atmosphere. The neighborhood is situated on the outskirts of the city's downtown core, offering residents easy access to downtown shops, restaurants, and the new CalTrain station. One of the notable advantages of living in Belle Air Park is its close proximity to San Francisco International Airport, which is just a five-minute drive away. The homes in Belle Air Park exhibit a variety of architectural styles, ranging from post-war bungalows to century-old cottages. It's common to find a mix of different house types on a single block, showcasing the diverse nature of the neighborhood. Over the years, there has been a significant amount of upgrading and remodeling undertaken by homeowners, resulting in varying designs and appearances. Most of the homes in Belle Air Park consist of two or three bedrooms and are typically one or two stories high. They were constructed between 1940 and 1960. In terms of affordability, homes in Belle Air Park tend to have prices below the citywide median, making it an attractive option for those seeking more affordable housing. The homes are often smaller than the citywide average and have a higher likelihood of being occupied by renters. Recent sales data in Belle Air Park indicates that homes have sold for prices ranging from $625,000 to $840,000, with a median sales price of $780,000. The median square footage of homes in the neighborhood is approximately 940 square feet. Additionally, the homes in Belle Air Park typically sit on lots that are either 2,500 or 5,000 square feet in size. In summary, Belle Air Park offers a friendly and working-class environment for its residents. Its prime location within walking distance of downtown amenities, restaurants, and the CalTrain station, as well as its close proximity to San Francisco International Airport, adds to its appeal. The neighborhood's diverse housing options, including post-war bungalows and century-old cottages, contribute to its unique character.

Crestmoor: A Mid-Century Dream Neighborhood for Families

Crestmoor, located in San Bruno, is a picturesque residential neighborhood characterized by its curving streets and mid-century homes. The majority of single-family homes in Crestmoor were built between 1950 and 1970, reflecting the era's architectural style. The neighborhood was designed to fulfill the aspirations of middle-class Americans who sought to escape city living while maintaining an easy commute to urban centers. In this regard, Crestmoor can be described as a resounding success. San Bruno focused its post-World War II expansion efforts on becoming a quintessential mid-century suburb, and Crestmoor exemplifies this vision. The neighborhood offers a tranquil and secluded environment, with its often steep streets lined with predominantly three-bedroom homes (outnumbering two and four-bedroom homes by a ratio of two-to-one). Some homes in Crestmoor boast panoramic views of San Francisco Bay. The architectural styles vary, with a heavy emphasis on California Mid-Century design, complemented by other more traditional styles. Crestmoor has established itself as a family-friendly neighborhood. It not only provides access to the natural beauty of Crestmoor Canyon but also benefits from its long-term residents who have fostered a strong sense of community and neighborliness. The residents, on average, have lived in their homes for extended periods, contributing to the neighborhood's stability and traditions. However, Crestmoor is experiencing both acute and inevitable changes. Acute changes stem from the construction of new homes on Claremont, Earl, and Glenview Drives, replacing those lost in 2010. Inevitable changes arise from the aging population and residents moving on, welcoming new individuals and families to the neighborhood. New residents will find that Crestmoor's real estate has appreciated significantly since the original owners purchased their homes. The demand for Crestmoor properties has driven prices well over the $1 million mark. Recent single-family home sales in Crestmoor range from $1.088 million to $1.65 million, with the majority closing escrow between $1.15 million and $1.45 million. Sales activity has been robust. Despite changes and the forces of nature, Crestmoor remains an even more desirable place to live than ever before. In summary, Crestmoor offers a tranquil and family-friendly environment with its beautiful mid-century homes and curving streets. It captures the essence of a classic mid-century suburb, attracting middle-class Americans seeking an escape from the city while maintaining a convenient commute. The neighborhood's strong sense of community, coupled with its scenic surroundings and desirable real estate, makes Crestmoor an appealing place to call home.

Huntington Park: A Popular and Well-Maintained Suburban Neighborhood

Huntington Park, one of San Bruno's first suburban neighborhoods, continues to be highly sought after by both newcomers and long-time residents. Originally sparsely populated farmland, the neighborhood has transformed into a meticulously maintained subdivision with a mix of pre- and post-war homes. Despite its suburban ambiance, Huntington Park benefits from a pedestrian-friendly location. The neighborhood is bordered by Jenevein Avenue to the north, Lomita to the south, El Camino Real to the east, and Highway 280 to the west. Its residents enjoy convenient access to downtown San Bruno, sunnier weather compared to neighboring areas, and proximity to the city's prominent green spaces, such as San Bruno Park and Junipero Serra County Park. Huntington Park addresses typically have WalkScores ranging from 70 to 80. Within the neighborhood, you'll find Parkside, San Bruno's only public intermediate school, along with El Crystal Elementary School and the San Bruno Senior Center. Most of Huntington Park is approximately a 20-25-minute walk from the San Bruno Caltrain station. If Huntington Park is representative of post-war Peninsula neighborhoods, it also exemplifies the care and attention given by its residents. The neighborhood features well-manicured lawns, vibrant gardens, and homes nestled on 5,000 square-foot lots. Many homes have undergone expansions or remodeling, while a few have been replaced altogether. Due to its popularity among both new and long-time residents, available properties in Huntington Park can be challenging to find. The real estate market is active, with properties typically selling quickly, and the local median home price has surpassed $1 million. Properties toward the northern border of Huntington Park are more likely to be available below the median figure, ranging up to approximately $1.2 million. In contrast, single-family homes at the southern end of the neighborhood can range between $1.1 million and $1.4 million. In summary, Huntington Park remains a highly desirable suburban neighborhood in San Bruno. Its well-maintained homes, manicured landscapes, and pedestrian-friendly location contribute to its popularity among residents. The neighborhood's proximity to downtown, favorable weather conditions, and access to green spaces further enhance its appeal. Although finding available properties can be challenging due to high demand, the vibrant community and attractive real estate make Huntington Park an appealing place to call home.

Lomita Park: A Century-Old Neighborhood with Diverse Real Estate

Lomita Park, a century-old neighborhood in San Bruno, exhibits a mix of styles and eras when it comes to its real estate. The majority of single-family homes in the area were constructed prior to 1960 and are typically modest in size, featuring two or three bedrooms and less than 1,500 square feet of living space. The Lomita Park neighborhood is home to a combination of older bungalows and newer apartment buildings. Its convenient location near downtown, El Camino Real, and transportation options, coupled with its diverse population, adds to its appeal. While Lomita Park has traditionally been considered an entry-level market in San Bruno, the real estate market in the area has been gaining momentum recently. Previously, homes in the $600,000 to $800,000 price range were common in Lomita Park. However, recent sales have all exceeded $1 million, resulting in a single-family home median price of $1.1 million. Despite this increase, Lomita Park's median home price remains below the citywide median, which adds to the neighborhood's charm. Lomita Park continues to offer maximum convenience, including a short walk for students attending Lomita Park Elementary and Capuchino High School, and homes with character at a relatively affordable price. The western edge of Lomita Park is occupied by apartment buildings constructed after 1960. These buildings take advantage of their proximity to El Camino Real, attracting renters and contributing to a higher population density compared to the rest of San Bruno. Moving further away from El Camino, the neighborhood's appearance becomes similar to that of its neighboring BelleAir, with smaller vintage homes situated on city lots of 5,000 square feet or less. In summary, Lomita Park is a century-old neighborhood in San Bruno known for its diverse real estate offerings. The area features a mixture of older bungalows and newer apartment buildings, catering to a variety of housing needs. While home prices in Lomita Park have been on the rise, the neighborhood continues to provide maximum convenience, character-filled homes, and a more affordable option compared to the citywide median. With its proximity to amenities and schools, Lomita Park remains an attractive choice for residents seeking a charming and well-located community.

Mills Park: A Classic Post-War Neighborhood with Suburban Charm

Mills Park is a distinctive neighborhood in San Bruno, which played a significant role in the city's rapid post-war expansion and acts as a connecting point to its newer western neighborhoods. Developed between 1940 and 1955, Mills Park embodies the essence of an immediate post-war neighborhood, featuring modest one-story homes, some of which have been expanded or replaced by their owners. These homes typically have one-car garages and sit on well-maintained 5,000 square-foot lots. The original vision for Mills Park was to provide an entry-level to middle-class housing option for families seeking a peaceful suburban lifestyle away from the city. It also served as a desirable location for returning G.I.s after World War II. Over the years, Mills Park has remained true to its founders' intentions, even as housing prices in the area have steadily approached the $1 million mark. Mills Park real estate is highly sought after for several reasons. Its prime location offers convenient access to downtown, El Camino Real, the 380 freeway, BART, and Caltrain. The neighborhood's curving and tranquil streets embody the kind of suburban neighborliness often sought after in both urban and rural settings. Residents take pride in maintaining their homes, keeping them in good condition, while meticulously tending to their yards and gardens. These factors contribute to the appeal of Mills Park, driving recent home prices above the $1 million median. Recent sales in the area have ranged from $1.38 million to $2.4 million. In summary, Mills Park is a cherished neighborhood in San Bruno that reflects the classic post-war suburban lifestyle. Its modest homes, well-manicured lots, and one-story layouts evoke a sense of nostalgia and community. With its convenient location and suburban charm, Mills Park has remained a popular choice for homebuyers, resulting in increasing home prices. The neighborhood's combination of accessibility, peacefulness, and pride of ownership contributes to its desirability, making it an attractive place to call home in San Bruno.

Monte Verde Park: A Desirable, Established Family Neighborhood

Monte Verde Park is an exclusive residential area in San Bruno, characterized by its classic mid-century one- and two-story homes. This small neighborhood, with a population of approximately 2,000 residents, exudes a close-knit community atmosphere. Its winding, sometimes steep roads and larger-than-average homes nestled amidst a lush and verdant setting contribute to its secluded suburban vibe. Over the years, Monte Verde Park has transitioned from being the "new kid on the block" to becoming a well-established and highly sought-after family neighborhood in San Bruno. Monte Verde Park real estate occupies the upper end of the San Bruno housing market. These homes, once sold for low five-figure prices, now command prices of up to $1.5 million in the current market. The homes in Monte Verde Park are generally larger than those found in the "flats" of San Bruno, offering three, four, or even five bedrooms. The majority of homes in the neighborhood were built between 1960 and 1969, with three-fourths of them constructed between 1950 and 1969, reflecting the heart of the mid-century era. These homes showcase contemporary designs, characterized by wide, flat facades and two-car garages. They also feature open interior floor plans, a hallmark of the mid-century architectural style. Recent sales in Monte Verde Park have ranged from $1.1 million to $1.5 million, indicating the high value placed on properties in this desirable neighborhood. However, prospective buyers should take note that inventory is often limited in Monte Verde Park due to residents' tendency to stay in their homes for an average of five years longer than the San Bruno average. In summary, Monte Verde Park is an established and highly regarded family neighborhood in San Bruno. Its classic mid-century homes, larger lot sizes, and secluded ambiance contribute to its desirability. With its convenient location, close-knit community feel, and attractive home designs, Monte Verde Park has become a sought-after residential area. The rise in home prices reflects the neighborhood's popularity and the value placed on its well-maintained properties.

Pacific Heights: A Secluded Suburban Retreat with Scenic Views

Situated high in the hills along Sweeney Ridge, closer to Pacifica than downtown San Bruno, Pacific Heights stands as the last neighborhood developed during the city's significant growth period following World War II. Previously used as dairyland, Pacific Heights was transformed by San Francisco builder Perry Liebman in the late 1950s and early 1960s into a secluded version of the classic post-war suburbia. The neighborhood features spacious homes with fenced yards, perched on winding roads that offer breathtaking views of San Bruno and the San Francisco Bay. Today, Pacific Heights is a well-established neighborhood, characterized by a slightly older and more settled population compared to its citywide neighbors. The neighborhood's uniformity, representative of mid-century architectural styles, is occasionally interrupted by newer developments. One such development is Marisol, built by Summerhill Homes in 2004, consisting of 115 units. Additionally, there are two large apartment complexes, Evergreen Ridge and Pacific Bay Vistas, located adjacent to each other along Skyline Boulevard, marking the northern border of Pacific Heights. Marisol homes within Pacific Heights offer three to four bedrooms and up to 2,600 square feet of interior living space. These spacious models have been commanding prices as high as $1.7 million in recent times, placing them at the top end of the Pacific Heights real estate market. Recent sales of single-family homes in Pacific Heights have typically ranged between $1 million and $1.5 million. Pacific Heights, with its secluded location and scenic views, remains an attractive residential retreat. The neighborhood's mid-century charm, coupled with the newer developments, offers a diverse range of housing options. Its serene ambiance, spacious homes, and proximity to natural beauty make Pacific Heights an appealing choice for those seeking a tranquil suburban lifestyle.

Portola Highlands: A Serene and Secluded Enclave in San Bruno's Western Hills

Nestled in the tranquil western hills of San Bruno, Portola Highlands is a small and exclusive neighborhood known for its quiet and secluded setting. The neighborhood is characterized by its spacious homes, many of which back up to protected open spaces, creating a bucolic atmosphere. Accessible via a single road, Portola Highlands emphasizes its peaceful ambiance and sense of seclusion. The residents of Portola Highlands take pride in maintaining their properties, resulting in neat and attractive homes and well-kept yards. Moreover, many homes in the area offer sweeping east-facing views, adding to the neighborhood's allure. Portola Highlands is a relatively small neighborhood, with just over 1,000 residents. The main access to the enclave is via Sneath Lane, which encircles the neighborhood and is lined with residential streets named after California counties. In terms of housing, Portola Highlands features newer homes compared to much of San Bruno. While there are a few homes dating back to the 1940s and 1950s, significant development in the area began in 1963, leading to rapid growth. Presently, nearly 70 percent of the homes in Portola Highlands were constructed between 1960 and 1969, offering several advantages. These classic post-war suburban homes tend to be larger than those found "down the hill," typically boasting three or four bedrooms and over 2,000 square feet of living space. Recent home sales in Portola Highlands have ranged between $1.1 million and $1.5 million, with a median price of $1.28 million. Portola Highlands captivates residents with its serene environment, secluded location, and larger homes. The neighborhood's proximity to open spaces, well-maintained properties, and picturesque views make it an appealing choice for those seeking tranquility and a close connection to nature.

Rollingwood: A Serene and Family-Friendly Neighborhood in San Bruno

Rollingwood is a tranquil and neighborly neighborhood situated in San Bruno's western suburbs. While it is more affordable compared to some of its neighboring areas, Rollingwood still maintains an upscale atmosphere, distinguishing itself from the "flat land" neighborhoods closer to downtown. The community exudes serenity, order, and a strong sense of neighborliness, making it an appealing place to reside. Rollingwood is exclusively residential, featuring a central neighborhood school and quiet streets that gracefully follow the contours of the surrounding hills, offering many residents breathtaking easterly views. Residents who have grown up in Rollingwood fondly recall their childhood experiences, such as riding bicycles along the peaceful residential streets and engaging in touch football games in the fields near Rollingwood Elementary. They nostalgically reminisce about a neighborhood characterized by friendship and amiable neighbors, often sharing humorous anecdotes about the fog being so thick that they had difficulty finding their own houses. Rollingwood fosters a family-friendly environment, and its population tends to be slightly older compared to other neighborhoods in San Bruno. Approximately three-fourths of the homes in Rollingwood are owner-occupied, contributing to the neighborhood's stability and sense of community. The homes in Rollingwood boast distinct mid-century architectural styles. Many residences are raised ranch homes, featuring garages and basements at street level, while the finished living spaces are located above, typically consisting of three or four bedrooms. About 50 percent of the homes in Rollingwood were constructed between 1950 and 1959, with an additional 12 percent completed during the 1960s. Recent sales of Rollingwood real estate indicate a median price of $850,000, and current listings range from $730,000 to $900,000 in asking price. Considering that the average Rollingwood home spans approximately 1,100 to 1,500 square feet of living space, the neighborhood has a median value of approximately $700 per square foot. Rollingwood is a neighborhood that blends serene surroundings, a tight-knit community, and affordable upscale living. Its mid-century homes, family-friendly atmosphere, and owner-occupancy contribute to its enduring appeal. The peaceful residential streets, sweeping views, and cherished memories shared by its residents make Rollingwood an idyllic place to call home in San Bruno.

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