San Marino: An Affluent Suburb of Southern California
Nestled in the sprawling San Rafael hills between Pasadena and San Gabriel, the Californian city of San Marino is characterized by lavish properties surrounded by exquisite gardens. Occupying less than four square miles, the area is uniquely residential. Population was reported to be 13,147 in 2010 and climate is temperate with temperatures ranging from an average of 40 degrees during winter months to an average of 90 degrees in the summer.
Ranked by Forbes Magazine as the 63rd most expensive location to live in the United States in 2010, the average price of a typical family home in the area is around the $2 million mark.
History and Current Demographics
The original location of a village occupied by native Tongva Indians, the area of San Marino later played an important role in the early San Gabriel Roman Catholic Mission. The area that is now occupied by the landmark Huntington Library together with several ranchos were incorporated as the city of San Marino in 1913.
The 2010 United States Census showed that the population of San Marino was a little over 13,000 people. The racial makeup of the area was detailed as 53.5% Asian and 41.3% White, with very small percentages of Hispanic and Latino, Pacific Islander and African-American races making up the rest of the population. Of 4,330 households, approximately 42% had children under the age of 18. The average age of residents is 45 years and there is a slightly higher female to male ratio.
Main Attractions in San Marino
The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens on Oxford Road is one of the most popular attractions in San Marino. Known collectively as ‘The Huntington’, this 207 acre landmark complex draws residents and tourists alike. The 18th century art collection housed here is said to be one of the most complete collections outside of London.
The Edwin Hubble House on Woodstock Road is a National Historic Landmark. It was the home of the American astronomer and “pioneer of distant stars,” Edwin Powell Hubble, between 1925 and 1953. The San Marino residence remained in the Hubble family until 1973.
Lacy Park is a vast 30-acre expanse of lush green space in the middle of San Marino. Originally known as Wilson Lake, it is considered one of the city’s best kept secrets. The park boasts six championship size tennis courts, walking loops, memorial gardens and a 60-year-old Rose Arbor. Also, when in Lacy Park, don’t overlook The Thurnher House which is located at the front entry of the park. This historic structure was built in 1929 and now serves as the headquarters for San Marino Historical Society.
The Crowell Public Library is a state-of-the-art building which opened in 2008. The new library provides books, magazines, DVD’s, electronic database, reference assistance and programs for all ages.
The Old Mill is the oldest commercial building in Southern California. Built in 1816, it served as a grist mill for Mission San Gabriel.
The Michael White Adobe is a small structure located on the campus of San Marino High School next to the athletic field, built in 1845 . Named for the owner of the original land where it was built, many say that San Marino’s roots in early California history began here.
Additional Information
– San Marino is divided into zones depending on lot size. Lots start at 4,500 square feet and reach over 30,000 square feet. The city’s strict views on historic preservation restrict larger developments.
– The San Marino government applies restrictions to commercial operations within the city. Commercial vehicles must be granted permits to enter and work within the city.
– The city is regularly featured in motion pictures and television shows. Famous examples include Father of the Bride, Mr & Mrs Smith, Starsky & Hutch and The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.
– According to the Academic Performance Index for 2011, the San Marino Unified School District is California’s best performing school district. The San Marino School District includes Carver and Valentine Elementary Schools, Huntington Middle School and San Marino High School.
– Private schools in San Marino include Southwestern Academy, a college preparatory school, and Saints Felicitas and Perpetua Grammar School, a Catholic elementary school serving students from kindergarten through 8th grade.
– The Crowell Public Library on Huntington Drive opened in 2008 and plays host to a range of activities and classes for residents of all ages and abilities.
See 2010 Home SOLD information for San Marino with List vs Sold Price, Date Sold and Price per Square Foot.
This community consists only of single family residences and there are no apartment buildings, condominiums or townhouses in the city.
This Pasadena adjacent has beautiful tree-lined streets and estates sitting on large lots, with many averaging over 30,000 sq. ft. Most of the San Marino homes were built between 1920 and 1950.
San Marino is regarded as having one of the best school districts in the Greater Los Angeles Area. In fact, San Marino School District was ranked as #1 district in California based on its API (Academic Performance Index) in 2008. All of its public schools are honored as a California Distinguished School and a United States National Blue Ribbon School.
The city includes the estate of Henry E. Huntington, who made a fortune in the development of Southern California and opened the library and art collections in his large neo-Palladian mansion to the public in 1919, best known as the Huntington Library. At the time, San Marino was some twelve miles (19 km) from Los Angeles.
Huntington Drive and Sierra Madre Boulevard serve as the main thoroughfares, leading to Pasadena, Alhambra and San Gabriel.
In the middle of San Marino, not too far from Huntington Library, lies Lacy Park. It is a huge 30-acre park filled with unique and hard to find trees and beautiful lush foliage. Not too many people know that back in 1875 it was a lake – Wilson Lake. The land was bought and converted to a park in 1925.
Families in San Marino have enjoyed Lacy park for years, and it remains one of San Marino’s best kept secrets. The park includes six championship tennis courts and pro shop, administered by the San Marino Tennis Foundation. At the west entrance of the park is the Rose Arbor, which is of special significance for the people of San Marino. It is 60 years old and has long been a source of beauty and tranquility to many residents.
The park recently built a memorial to General George S. Patton (a native of San Marino) and also a large memorial to Armed Forces along with a statue of a sad soldier. The memorial includes the names of all military personnel from San Marino that where killed in various wars.
San Marino Schools
Wikipedia says this about San Marino Schools: There are four public schools. They are Valentine Elementary School, Carver Elementary School, Huntington Middle School and San Marino High School. Stoneman Elementary School (named for the Governor who lived in San Marino) is no longer used for instruction by the School District. Southwestern Academy, a private college preparatory school, is also located in San Marino.
There is also a private Roman Catholic grammar school, SS. Felicitas and Perpetua. The city took the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to the Supreme Court to block the opening of this school.
The two elementary schools offer instruction for grades K-5, the middle school for grades 6-8 and the high school for grades 9-12.
In 2005 and 2006, the San Marino Unified School District ranked first among all 328 California unified school districts based on the California Academic Performance Index. San Marino High School is considered one of the best-performing public schools on Standardized Achievement Tests (as of 2004) in Southern California. It was also named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2006. Most of San Marino’s schools’ funds come from private donors and organizations.[citation needed].
In November 2007, U.S. News and World Report put San Marino High School in number 82 on its list of best high schools in the nation, giving SMHS the Gold Medal honor.
Asian-Americans are 70% of San Marino school enrollment as of December 2005. Strong support for education from the Asian community has bolstered the excellence of the school district.
The University of Southern California owns a house in San Marino which is used as the residence of the President of the University. The residence and grounds are large enough to allow events to be held there.
*Data gathered from San Marino Unified School District, California Department of Education Analysis, Measurement & Accountability Reporting Division and GreatSchools.org
San Marino Housing
On October 6, 2008, Forbes.com rated San Marino as the 47th most expensive zip codes (91108) to live in with the 2007 median home price being $1,552,500.
Even in the economic downturn, home prices have maintained their value and San Marino home sellers are still experiencing a higher demand than the surrounding cities.
San Marino Real Estate Listings by Price. These home listings are updated every few hours and feed directly from the Multiple Listing Service as real estate agents update and upload new homes for sale.
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San Marino Real Estate:
- Sat, 21 Oct 2017 23:18:00 +0000: $5,800,000 :: 843 San Marino Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 4,686 sq ft
Lot Size: 30,060 sq ft
Added: 10/19/17, Last Updated: 10/21/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR17239537
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Location! Location! Location! ~ This elegant mid-century traditional residence is located on a large flat lot in the desirable Huntington Library Estate area of San Marino. With an ideal floor plan, a spacious entry opens to a gracious living room with a lovely marble fireplace, a generous paneled family room with wet bar, a sophisticated formal dining room with a bay window and also to the pleasant bedroom wing. A gourmet kitchen features granite counters, GE Monogram appliances and custom cabinetry and a large laundry is adjacent. There are three spacious bedrooms, one with bath en suite and two that share a bath, and a handsome library with fireplace. The beautifully landscaped grounds feature a circular drive in front and expansive lawn area, pool and patio leading to a one bedroom one bath guest house at the back of the residence.
Listed with Treeline Realty & Investment
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Sat, 21 Oct 2017 15:47:00 +0000: $1,680,000 :: 2845 Duarte Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,437 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,885 sq ft
Added: 10/19/17, Last Updated: 10/21/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: TR17241412
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
SELLER IS REALLY MOTIVATE WILL CONSIDERATE ALL OFFERS Huge price reduce for quick sell,Highly desirable San Marino 2 Stories Home with completed NEW ROOF through out entire house and garage, new paint in all rooms, new floor in master bedroom upstairs. This elegant House has 3 spacious bedrooms, two and half baths, an traditional Family room with French Window and Doors that over looking fabulous Pool / Spa and BBQ area for the most relaxing and enjoyable moment in the end of your day. Custom Design Spacious Gourmet Kitchen with many Cabinets and Plenty of Pantry space. Formal Dining Room and Also Family room with fireplace. 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms are downstairs. Elegant wood staircase leads to spacious Master Suite with luxurious mater bath. Many original architectural details manintained and other custom details throughout the house include wall papers, light fixtures, cabinets and wooden floors. Located close to AWARD - WINNING SAN MARINO SCHOOLS and neighborhood shopping. You must see !
Listed with Dynasty Realty
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Tue, 17 Oct 2017 00:39:00 +0000: $1,985,000 :: 420 Pilgrim Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,909 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,806 sq ft
Added: 10/16/17, Last Updated: 10/17/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 817002362
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
This impeccable single story midcentury ranch sits on a 7 home cul-de-sac in San Marino. As you enter, there is a lovely courtyard garden to the right of the 9 light contemporary double front doors. Opening off the formal entry is a spacious living room with fireplace. The kitchen is beyond the entry and has been completely remodeled with quartz counter tops, stainless steel appliances, island, hardwood floors and a quaint eating area that opens to the pool and built-in barbecue.Between the kitchen and the dining room there is a wonderful bar/pantry area with a wine fridge. Both the dining room and family room have french doors opening to the backyard. Off the family room there is a study/office with a Murphy bed that can also function as a guest room. There is a large master suite wit
Listed with Partners Trust Real Estate Brokerage & Acquisitions
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Sun, 15 Oct 2017 12:45:00 +0000: $5,560,000 :: 1460 Avonrea Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
6 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 7,557 sq ft
Lot Size: 29,067 sq ft
Added: 10/15/17, Last Updated: 10/15/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 817002337
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
This historic English-style Craftsman home was built by San Marino founder and 5-term mayor Richard H. Lacy and has been thoughtfully restored and well-maintained. From the welcoming foyer to the secluded pool and spa area, this landmark mansion boasts impressive history and elegance. A majestic oak tree greets you as you approach through a gracefully extended drive on near 2/3 of an acre of beautifully landscaped, park-like grounds. This gracious home features classic architectural detailing and more than 7,500 SF of inviting living space includes grand-scale entry hall, living room, formal dining room, library, family room, conservatory, breakfast room, butler's pantry & a beautiful kitchen. More than 1,000 SF space in the lower level includes an oversized laundry room, gym room &storage
Listed with COMPASS
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Thu, 12 Oct 2017 18:38:00 +0000: $2,280,000 :: 1571 Wembley Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,927 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,096 sq ft
Added: 06/02/17, Last Updated: 10/12/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS17123443
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/22/2017 by 5%
Status: Active
Major price reduction... well-kept one story home located in prime location of San Marino, north of Huntington Dr. Formal entry way, spacious living room with recessed lights, house was originally built in year 1948 and with addition in year 1986, kitchen was tastefully remodeled by current owner, granite counter top, custom cabinets, center island, 4 nice sized bedrooms, ( 3 are suites), master bedroom with walk in closet, jacuzzi, shower, and newer wood floor, all bathrooms have been updated by current owner in year of 2010, dinning room with built-in work area and fireplace, family room with doors lead to professionally landscaped back yard, grassy area, gazebo, and patio.
Listed with COLDWELL BANKER DYNASTY/ARC
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Thu, 12 Oct 2017 06:11:00 +0000: $14,800,000 :: 1540 Oak Grove Ave. Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 8 baths
Home size: 9,200 sq ft
Lot Size: 65,340 sq ft
Added: 10/11/17, Last Updated: 10/12/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 817002287
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
This majestic French Provincial Estate located above Lacy Park exemplifies luxury and is situated on one of San Marino's most exclusive streets. Attention to every detail inside and out make this residence one of the most prestigious in all of Los Angeles. On the market for the first time in its history, this grand single story estate home is truly one of a kind. It was designed by renowned architects Robert Woolf and Robert Koch who are known for designs with high ceilings and intricate detail.
Listed with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Company
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Wed, 11 Oct 2017 10:32:00 +0000: $1,998,000 :: 1875 Kenilworth Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,957 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,007 sq ft
Added: 06/06/17, Last Updated: 10/11/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 817000041
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/20/2017 by 9%
Status: Active
Situated in a lovely San Marino neighborhood, this stately Colonial style home offers an abundance of desirable features and the benefits of the city's prestigious school district. Surrounded by an enchanting white fence, the house is accessed by following a brick walkway into a generous entry flanked by the front garden. Gracious public rooms include a spacious living room complete with a brick fireplace, decorative mantel and bay windows; a light-filled family room with soaring beamed ceilings, built-in bookcases, a fireplace, skylights, and sliding doors leading to the backyard; a formal dining room with a bay window, and a well-appointed kitchen with charming windows over the sink opening to an outside countertop. Completing the first floor are a convenient 3/4 bath off the kitchen
Listed with Sotheby's International Realty, Inc.
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Tue, 10 Oct 2017 13:22:00 +0000: $2,689,000 :: 2295 Huntley Circle, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,750 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,499 sq ft
Added: 10/10/17, Last Updated: 10/10/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 817002256
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Located in a secluded cul-de-sac, near Huntington Library, this stately traditional sits on a gentle knoll. The home features wood floor, an impressive living rm w/picturesque w/w window, merging the outdoors seamlessly & a family rm that opens to a brick patio. Other public rooms include a study, a delightful dining zone offering a cozy lounge, formal dining area, and an open kitchen. The remodeled kitchen showcases top-of-the-line appliances & a large island. The sleeping quarter offers 3 good-sized newly carpeted bedrms, including a quaint master bedroom suite w/ample closets & a master bath. The guest quarters has a sitting rm & a bedrm opens to a sun deck. A sparkling pool, a lovely landscaped yards perfectly surround the estate, making it a true oasis in the heart of the San Marino.
Listed with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Mon, 09 Oct 2017 13:14:00 +0000: $1,775,000 :: 630 Old Mill Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,550 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,345 sq ft
Added: 10/09/17, Last Updated: 10/09/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 817002237
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Stately English Tudor home with 3 fireplaces and elegant detail throughout. The home built in 1977, features a large entry with powder room, a step-down living room with fireplace, light and bright kitchen which opens to a spacious family room with fireplace and wet bar. The family room opens to a charming covered patio and a lovely, manicured garden. Upstairs features 3 bedrooms. The spacious master suite with fireplace, large walk-in closet plus an additional closet and full bathroom. There is a full hall bathroom for the other 2 bedrooms. This is the first time the home has been on the market for 39 years and is located in the desirable Mission District.Other amenities include CAC, a central vacuum system and an attached over-sized two garage.
Listed with Coldwell Banker Residental Brokerage
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Thu, 05 Oct 2017 18:13:00 +0000: $4,388,000 :: 719 Winston Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,988 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,853 sq ft
Added: 10/05/17, Last Updated: 10/05/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: CV17229614
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Beautiful 2 story elegant home in highly desirable San Marino neighborhood w/award winning schools. Featuring 4 BR & 4 BA, this home exudes elegance w/designer touches throughout, thanks to the hand-picked top designers from the Pasadena Showcase House chosen to lend their talents to this home. Retreat into your resort style master bedroom complete w/large walk in closet w/built-ins & spa-like master bath perfect for winding down after your day. Fully finished basement w/windows, fireplace & bar offers an array of possibilities for use including as an entertainment or game room! Crisp, natural light pours into the bright & airy gourmet kitchen w/chic glass-front cabinetry, breakfast nook, walk in pantry & opens up to the family room. Elegant dining room is perfect for hosting a dinner party w/your favorite guests. From the family room, accordion doors open up to the meticulously landscaped back yard: Entertain in style w/the help of the outdoor kitchen & bar, complete w/ fire pizza oven to dazzle your guests w/homemade delights. Relax under the pergola patio w/fireplace offering a romantic touch & perfect for those crisp evenings. The pool offers a welcoming refreshing option on those warm summer days. Within close proximity to top rated San Marino High school, Carver Elementary school and The Huntington Library & Gardens. Indulge in the exquisite floor-to-ceiling details this entire home has to offer & luxurious living; don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to make it yours!
Listed with RE/MAX CHAMPIONS
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
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Interesting tidbits about San Marino:
- Overnight parking is not allowed
- All homes have to have a 2-car garage
- If you are driving around San Marino, be careful! A lot of streets do not have Stop signs. Slow down and look both ways!
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