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:
- Fri, 22 Jan 2021 13:54:00 +0000: $3,200,000 :: 2769 GAINSBOROUGH Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,614 sq ft
Lot Size: 18,818 sq ft
Added: 01/22/21, Last Updated: 01/22/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 21683726
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This beautiful custom estate situated on a home site that spans over 18,000 SF has been tastefully adorned with the finest materials available! The entry way boasts diamond pattern marble flooring and crown moldings. Chestnut wood flooring throughout, gas & wood burning fireplace & beautiful glass windows dressed with plantation shutters are featured in the lovely formal living room! The gourmet kitchen is fitted with stainless steel appliances, 6-burner gas stove & oven, built-in wine rack, glossy granite counter tops & elegant cabinetry all under bright recessed lighting! All 4 bedrooms feature private baths, the master bedroom has been carefully crafted with a relaxing spa-like tub with marble surround, separate shower with crystal clear glass doors, dual sinks and large walk-in closet! Step outside onto the lovely covered loggia to gaze at the sparkling pool and spa. This great estate also features its own exercise room & guest house with wet bar & 3/4 bath.
Listed with Grace Chow CalDRE: 01148331, Coldwell Banker 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/! - Fri, 22 Jan 2021 09:04:00 +0000: $3,225,000 :: 2305 Robles Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,991 sq ft
Lot Size: 21,754 sq ft
Added: 01/20/21, Last Updated: 01/22/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-3014
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active
This Elegant 1950 English Estate is located within close proximity of award winning San Marino schools and the famous Huntington Library. First floor features an updated kitchen, formal dining area that looks out onto the verdant front yard, while the grand living room flows out into the expansive rear patio and private backyard for indoor outdoor living. Large guest bedroom overlooking the backyard can also be used as a family room. Second floor includes the master suite and two additional bedrooms with an adjoining bathroom. Additional 532 sq feet is located above the 3 car garage and can be used as a home office or playroom. A tranquil living space in an ideal location !
Listed with Michelle Chan CalDRE: 02013197, deasy penner podley
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/! - Fri, 22 Jan 2021 05:30:00 +0000: $2,390,000 :: 1201 Winston Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 2,904 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,973 sq ft
Added: 01/13/21, Last Updated: 01/22/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR21012933
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Romantic and absolutely stunning! Rich in original architectural details, this beautiful 1930 Spanish revival home, 3 bed 4 bath, designed by renowned architect, Lawrence Test, will steal your heart! As you walk up the rising knoll, the handsomely crafted original doors welcomes you into a magnificent living room with 12+ feet ceilings, exposed beams, and original Malibu fireplace tiles. Dark hardwood floors runs throughout the sizable 2,904 square foot home. A formal dining room leads into the original butler’s pantry with mahogany countertops. The timeless gourmet kitchen features Viking stovetop and high-end appliances. Past the arched loggia up the stairs, will lead you up to the master bedroom ensuite with a spacious walk-in closet, and French doors that open up into two large balconies with a beautiful view of the neighborhood. The two downstairs bedrooms are spacious, sharing a Jack and Jill bathroom in between. The back yard is professionally landscaped featuring a romantic entertainment space with paver stone walkways, waterfall, fire pit, fountain, BBQ, and grapevines above the pergola. Along side the two car garage, equipped with newly installed fast electric vehicle charging station, is a very large storage room filled with floor to ceiling storage cabinets. You are walking distance to the award-winning San Marino High School, and just minutes away from retail, bank, and restaurants. Imagine this historical charming retreat in this one of a kind home.
Listed with Tina Wang CalDRE: 01963661, Keller Williams DTLA
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, 19 Jan 2021 10:58:00 +0000: $2,088,000 :: 2304 Melville Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,392 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,859 sq ft
Added: 01/19/21, Last Updated: 01/19/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR21008604
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This single level Ranch exudes character and craftsmanship, situated in the sought-after Sherwood Copse neighborhood of San Marino, with accessibility to award-winning San Marino Schools. This corner lot home boasts manicured landscaped front yard and a two-car garage that is easily accessible through two street frontages. This home uniquely embodies character and charm; it features recessed lighting, ceiling fans, crown molding, custom wood trim around doors and partial windows, a California basement and a backyard storage shed. The elaborate living room has a fireplace, hardwood flooring, and oversized bay windows providing generous natural lights. The dining room is highlighted by wainscoting panels and built-in cabinets which is currently being used as a family room. The office features wood panels, hardwood floors with round pegs, a brick fireplace, and built-in bookshelves. The updated kitchen is well furnished with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, mosaic tile backsplash, and an eat-in breakfast area. The laundry room has a utility sink and access to the side yard. The master bedroom features two closets, and ensuite bathroom with a dual sink vanity, a frameless glass shower room and a separate makeup area. One bedroom was converted to an inspiring dressing room with custom closet organizing system. Relax in the covered patio and socialize with friends in the backyard recreation area with a fire pit, ideal for exceptional alfresco dining or relaxation.
Listed with Jerry Sun CalDRE: 01338788, RE/MAX Premier 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/! - Sat, 16 Jan 2021 16:52:00 +0000: $2,980,000 :: 1705 Durklyn Court, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,521 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,220 sq ft
Added: 01/16/21, Last Updated: 01/16/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR21009546
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This exquisite modern style one-level home is privately situated off a tranquil cul-de-sac in Sherwood neighborhood of San Marino. It boasts a width frontage extending along the semi-circular driveway and a garden-like front yard. Near award-winning San Marino Schools, banks, restaurants, public library, Lacy Park, The Huntington Library, and Caltech. This home exudes character and remodeling with numerous upgrades completed in 2018. Upon entering the double stained glass door, you’re greeted by an entry foyer with a coat closet; originally designed for a powder room. The living room with oversized windows provide natural lighting and engineered hardwood flooring. The south facing living areas connect the kitchen, breakfast area, family room, and dining room with an open-plan zone. The family room is enhanced by granite fireplace, central skylight, and porcelain tile flooring. The fully renovated kitchen has ample cabinetry with soft close doors, granite countertops, marble tile backsplash, walk-in pantry, a large center island, and breakfast area. The dining room has a built-in wet bar. The master suite features a large walk-in wardrobe, and the master bathroom contains a dual sink vanity, frameless glass shower room, freestanding clawfoot bathtub, and toilet area. The second suite's attached bathroom has access to the laundry room. The backyard is encompassed by a wide variety of native plants, oak trees, fruit trees, and a large patio.
Listed with Jerry Sun CalDRE: 01338788, RE/MAX Premier 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/! - Fri, 15 Jan 2021 20:27:00 +0000: $2,260,000 :: 2788 Cumberland Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,761 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,326 sq ft
Added: 11/23/20, Last Updated: 01/15/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-2415
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active
Welcome to this beautiful home situated on a tree lined street North of Huntington Dr., within walking distance to the award winning San Marino High School. It has nice interiors and an open floor plan with 3 bedroom suites, a powder room, a den, and a family/entertainment room. Additional amenities include crystal chandeliers, newly installed 3 sets of Lincoln aluminum clad French doors, newly installed tankless water heater, dual-zoned central air conditioners, updated gourmet kitchen with professional appliances, gorgeous living room with fireplace, dining room with vaulted ceilings and beautiful views to the backyard, and a spacious master bedroom suite with a huge walk-in steam shower and Jacuzzi tub. This home belongs to a top school district in Southern California, and is perfect for entertaining and comfortable living.
Listed with Josephine Yang CalDRE: 01188008, Coldwell Banker 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/! - Fri, 15 Jan 2021 05:33:00 +0000: $2,600,000 :: 1212 Roanoke Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,868 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,197 sq ft
Added: 10/18/20, Last Updated: 01/15/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-2892
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active
Sited on a grassy knoll overlooking the wide street below, this single level character 1927 Spanish revival style home is well located near award-winning Valentine Elementary School & Lacy Park. Enter through the turreted entry into the step-down formal living room with hand-stenciled beamed ceiling, arched art niches, large picture window & formal dining room features a coved tray ceiling, arched triple windows overlooking the knoll. Adjoining the kitchen is a light-filled family room with gas fireplace & French door to a spacious side patio. The remodeled kitchen features a Subzero stainless steel built-in refrigerator with freezer drawers & refrigerator drawers, a 6-burner Viking Professional cooktop, granite counters & recessed lighting. Adjoining the kitchen is the light-filled breakfast room with windows on 3 sides. There are 3 en-suite bedrooms, include a large main bedroom suite with 2 walk-in closets, a marble full bath with jet tub & shower designed as a steam shower. Add'l features include: plaster walls, oak hardwood floors, laundry room, California basement finished with storage cabinets & wine locker, security system & smart home features, automatic driveway gate with a handsome arched porte cochere, detached 2-car garage w/automatic doors. The re-landscaped yard features a perimeter privacy hedge, fruit trees + an amazing rose garden with approx 80 rose plants (many from the Huntington Library), & multiple entertainment patios.
Listed with Sarah Rogers CalDRE: 01201812, 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, 14 Jan 2021 19:10:00 +0000: $3,488,000 :: 855 Plymouth Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 4,630 sq ft
Lot Size: 32,535 sq ft
Added: 11/20/20, Last Updated: 01/14/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20244259
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 1/14/2021 by 7%
Status: Active
Reduced, priced to sell! Nestled in one of the most family friendly streets in San Marino lies a rare opportunity. A secluded oasis, just blocks from the delightful Mission District. Step through the front gates and let the tranquility of this hidden gem envelope you. Extremely large lot for the area with fantastic layout, little street frontage and maximum privacy. 3/4 of an acre of level ground. Paradise with a sparkling pool, large lawns, bubbling fountains and mature plantings. Rounding out the expansive gardens is a fully equipped Pool House. This classic Monterey Colonial home offers endless entertaining options. From the formal Living and Dining Rooms, both with French doors opening to the garden. To the dine-in Kitchen, complete with wet bar, or the “Outdoor Dining Room”. The spacious Living Room is flanked by a cozy Library, each with a fireplace. The Master Suite has the luxury of a large bath and dressing area. Multiple built-in closets are anyone’s dream. Step out to the wraparound balcony and take in the serenity. The bedroom on the main level offers multiple possibilities, as it also has an outside entrance. Home Office, In-Law Suite or, as it was designed, Maid Suite and Nursery. 5 bedrooms and 5 baths in the Main House, with an additional full bath in the Pool House. An oversized 3 car garage, with built-in storage, accompanies another 2 car space currently used as a shop. Ample parking for guests affords an additional privacy buffer. Your sanctuary awaits!
Listed with Pamela DelRey CalDRE: 00864033, Art Del Rey 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/! - Thu, 07 Jan 2021 11:33:00 +0000: $4,800,000 :: 690 San Marino Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 4,973 sq ft
Lot Size: 22,525 sq ft
Added: 01/07/21, Last Updated: 01/07/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS21003278
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Located in the exclusive Huntington Library Gardens neighborhood, this elegant single story Country French style home features a spacious floor plan and exceptional details designed by architect Don Crenshaw. Remodeled in 2007, this gracious and inviting home offers nearly 5,000 SF with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a library, gourmet kitchen, a 3 car garage with epoxy floors with drive thru entry and exit, and automatic gates on both sides of the home for privacy. Additionally, the 400 SF of finished attic space can be used as a media or playroom. The entrance hall of the home is a stunning focal point with 2 chandeliers, soffit ceiling and wood floors. The home also features top of the line fixtures, low voltage lighting, and custom finishes. The spacious back yard includes beautiful landscaping and deck. This very well maintained property is truly a wonderful home for gracious living and entertaining.
Listed with PETER LUI CalDRE: 00715284, KENT 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/! - Mon, 04 Jan 2021 13:01:00 +0000: $4,369,000 :: 1867 Windsor Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,600 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,297 sq ft
Added: 01/03/21, Last Updated: 01/04/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS21001276
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Brand new contstruction located on treelined street in desirable city of San marino. This outstanding 4 bedrooms and 4.5 bath boasts top of the line materials and workmanship with perfectly manicured landscaping. The foyer opens to a formal living room with a fancy fire place. The entertainment area includes the family room opens to gourmet kitchen.The kitchen features high end Miele stainless steel appliances and wine cellar, a waterfall island, and a preparation 2nd kitchen. The 4 bedrooms all features en suite bathrooms. Beautiful master suite is spacious with tub and separate steam showers, walk in closet. Multiple outdoor sitting areas with pool, gated. San Marino distinguished schools. A must see
Listed with MING SONG CalDRE: 01866980, RE/MAX PREMIER/ARCADIA
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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