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 parkfor 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.
Search over 100,000 homes – including the entire Pasadena California Multiple Listing Service
- San Marino Homes for Sale $700,000 to $800,000
- San Marino Homes for Sale $800,000 to $900,000
- San Marino Homes for Sale $900,000 to $1,000,000
- San Marino Homes for Sale $1,000,000 to $1,500,000
- San Marino Homes for Sale $1,500,000 to $2,000,000
- San Marino Homes for Sale $2,000,000 to $2,500,000
- San Marino Homes for Sale $2,500,000 to $3,000,000
- San Marino Homes for Sale over $3,000,000
San Marino Real Estate:
- Mon, 09 Dec 2013 22:06:00 +0000: $2,999,000 :: 1342 Circle Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 4 full, 2 part baths
Home size: 4,504 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,841 sq ft
Added: 12/06/13, Last Updated: 12/09/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 213006909
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA-655)
Status: Active
This 1926 Spanish style San Marino home is sited on a beautiful tree-lined street northwest of Lacy Park. The gracious foyer boasts a powder room and sweeping, curved stairway with ornate wrought iron balusters leading to the second story landing. To the right, the grand scale living room features an oversized fireplace with elaborate mantle, and built in shelving. The formal dining room with large bay window and French doors that open to a patio are to the left of the foyer with handsome wood beamed kitchen and breakfast room adjacent to the dining room. A guest room/maid's quarters, a sunroom with elevator, and a mud room complete the first floor. Upstairs are two master bedroom suites, 2 additional bedrooms and bathrooms, and an office with an elevator landing that complete the second level. The cozy backyard features an attractive pool, patios and detached two car garage. 1342 Circle Drive is a fabulous property. Sold As Is
Listed with Gilda Anderson, Podley 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!
- Sun, 08 Dec 2013 10:28:00 +0000: $5,680,000 :: 1580 Chelsea Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
6 beds, 6 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 6,800 sq ft
Lot Size: 23,522 sq ft
Added: 09/04/13, Last Updated: 12/08/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: AR13179238
Community: San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 10/18/2013 by 5%
Status: Active
A rare opportunity to own a newly constructed luxury home in beautiful San Marino. Situated on a 23,522 sqft lot, approx. 6,800 sqft home has abundant space for living and entertaining both inside and out. Just a few of the highlights are four bedroom suites upstairs; two bedroom suites, a game room, library/office and guest bathroom downstairs; formal dining room; breakfast room; large kitchen and additional wok kitchen; & backyard pool and spa. This home has been built with attention to detail and style throughout, wall treatments and paint that are custom & unique; marble countertops, custom tiling and glass shower doors in the bathrooms. The stunning marble entryway boasts a sweeping, curved stairway with ornate wrought iron balusters leading to the second story landing. The open & spacious kitchen features marble flooring, countertops and tiled backsplashes. The kitchen opens to the expansive family room with French doors leading to the gorgeous backyard. The expansive master bedroom features a tray ceiling with crown molding & two sets of French doors leading to a spacious balcony with wrought iron balusters, skylights and recessed lighting. A beautiful, modern home in the beautiful, historic town of San Marino. A rare and exceptional opportunity.
Listed with Ash Rizk, Coldwell Banker 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!
- Fri, 06 Dec 2013 13:52:00 +0000: $1,599,000 :: 1802 Carlisle Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 full baths
Home size: 2,243 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,852 sq ft
Added: 10/31/13, Last Updated: 12/06/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 213002246
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA-655)
Status: Conditional
This charming traditional home has been gracefully updated while preserving the original details and integrity of the house. Desirable San Marino location near Valentine and Huntington schools, library, shops and restaurants. A welcoming entry leads to a spacious formal living room with built in display areas surrounding a beautiful fireplace. The bright updated kitchen has granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, and a charming eating area. The formal dining room is adjacent to a comfortable family room that opens to the patio and inviting backyard through french doors. A spacious master suite includes a large walk-in closet and full bath. Two additional bedrooms with designer paint and an updated full bath complete this wonderful home.
Listed with Sarah Buckle, Dilbeck Real Estate
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!
- Wed, 04 Dec 2013 17:54:00 +0000: $1,320,000 :: 400 Winthrop Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 1 full, 2 part baths
Home size: 2,068 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,613 sq ft
Added: 12/04/13, Last Updated: 12/04/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 213006744
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA-655)
Status: Active
Located in the popular Mission District of San Marino, this California Traditional is being offered for the first time since 1961. This home has been lovingly maintained and updated through the years and features an excellent floor plan conducive to today's lifestyle. According to the sellers there are hardwood floors in several rooms that have never been exposed (buyer to verify). The large covered patio off of the family room is a true outdoor room & is perfect for al fresco entertaining. The spacious lot offers mature landscaping & a large two car garage rarely found in the neighborhood. All of the above & top rated San Marino schools make this a great opportunity!
Listed with Esther Tan (w/ Brett Furrey), Podley 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!
- Wed, 04 Dec 2013 15:36:00 +0000: $1,280,000 :: 1690 Hilliard Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 1,819 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,234 sq ft
Added: 10/21/13, Last Updated: 12/04/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: WS13214722
Community: San Marino
Status: Conditional
One story Ranch style. All hardwood floor through the house. Walking distance to school. North east corner of back yard has a pear tree does not include in this transaction.Seller will remove before close of escrow. Rear yard with plenty of fruit trees. Good Size of lot. Formal dinning room. Den has closet can be use as third bedroom.Seller reserved all the services. Property to be sold at "as is" condition.
Listed with Thomas Hsu, KO TAI 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!
- Fri, 29 Nov 2013 10:35:00 +0000: $995,000 :: 1731 South San Gabriel Boulevard, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 1,463 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,577 sq ft
Added: 09/28/13, Last Updated: 11/29/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 22180188
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA-655)
Status: Active
Don't miss this charming traditional home located in San Marino with San Marino Schools. It features 3 bedrooms, 1 and 3/4 baths, spacious living room with fireplace, formal dining room, gleaming wood floors, a large upgraded Kitchen with newer stainless steel French bottom freezer refrigerator and newer stainless steel stove, a two car garage with custom built cabinets for extra storage, and a long driveway with an automatic gate. Additional upgrades include; newer double tile roof, newer air conditioning and heating unit, newer washing machine, water purifier, water softener and custom blinds. There is a large front and back yard with many trees. The private back yard is perfect for outdoor entertainment.
Listed with Patricia Wallace, Berkshire Hathaway Home Serv.
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!
- Fri, 22 Nov 2013 20:55:00 +0000: $1,380,000 :: 1380 Garfield Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 1 full, 2 part baths
Home size: 2,369 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,000 sq ft
Added: 08/03/13, Last Updated: 11/22/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: OC13155304
Community: San Marino
Status: Active
Wonderful ranch style home north of Hungtington Drive with San Marino Schools. Formal entry leads to light filled living room with recess lighting and fireplace. Hardwood floors through out with granite flooring in the kitchen; tile in bathrooms and family room. Remodeled & upgraded bathrooms; kitchen features granite counter top; breakfast bar and opens to formal dining area with cozy fireplace; 1 year new stainless steel range, dishwasher; faucet and central air condition. Nice & bright family room opens to patio and huge backyard. Extremely rare spacious casitas/studio with 1 year new 3/4 bath (but never been use) and new laminate wood plank flooring. 2 car direct access garage with 1 year new roll up garage door. Spacious patio & backyard - great for kids and entertaining. In the non busy and quiet part of Garfield.
Listed with Margaret Leung, Pacific Sterling 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!
- Thu, 14 Nov 2013 11:32:00 +0000: $4,250,000 :: 1270 Mesa Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 full baths
Home size: 3,904 sq ft
Lot Size: 23,924 sq ft
Added: 11/12/13, Last Updated: 11/14/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 213003565
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA-655)
Status: Active
Located in the most prestigious neighborhood, in the hills above Lacy Park in San Marino, this stunning estate was designed by famed architect Roaland Coate for entertaining and indoor and outdoor living. Home features 3 bedroom suite + den + family room + formal dining room, 3.5.5 bathrooms. Master BR suite features a large dressing room and closets. Large kitchen features a center island, lots of cabinet space, viking stove. 3 fireplaces & 3-car garage. Brand new natural Oak hardwood floors throughout, new dual CAC & heat system, new window draperies, new installed alarm system with cameras & screen monitors, new light fixtures, ceiling fans, dual paned window/doors, water softener and freshly paint interior and exterior. To complete this amazing estate is the beautifully landscaped yard offers majestic Pine trees, stone paving drive way, motor court, large new grass lawn, brick paving BBQ patio area and a large pool/spa area, etc. This is the ultimate oasis for fine living
Listed with Jean Ni (w/ William Ni), Coldwell Banker
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!
- Tue, 12 Nov 2013 19:16:00 +0000: $1,998,000 :: 2715 Ardmore Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 1 full, 3 part baths
Home size: 3,153 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,708 sq ft
Added: 10/22/13, Last Updated: 11/12/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 213001133
Community: Unknown
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA-655)
Status: Conditional
Charming San Marino Cape Cod Colonial located on a popular tree-lined street in the highly desirable San Marino Mission District! Beautiful five bedroom & four bath home with extensive upgrades and improvements, including a gorgeous gourmet kitchen featuring 36 Bertazoni Heritage 6 burner range & hood, handmade farmhouse copper sink, & prep sink, custom maple cabinets, granite counters & backsplash, island seating and travertine stone floors. The kitchen is open to the comfortable family room, with a brick fireplace, wood-beamed ceiling, recessed lighting, and custom French doors that open to the patio and lush lawn area. The lovely private brick patio is perfect for dining & entertaining with family and friends. Adjacent to the kitchen is the formal dining room with an outstanding crystal chandelier. There are 3 en suites, one on the main level, Master suite upstairs along with two additional bedrooms and bath, and a separate en suite off the family room. Close to restaurants.
Listed with Carrie Grochow, Dilbeck Real Estate
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!
- Sat, 09 Nov 2013 11:40:00 +0000: $1,800,000 :: 2152 Valentine Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 full baths
Home size: 2,908 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,800 sq ft
Added: 10/21/13, Last Updated: 11/09/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: AR13214770
Community: San Marino
Status: Conditional
**Sale Pending**Enjoy life in this comfortable and enchanting home nestled on a serene cul-de-sac in the premier neighborhood of San Marino. A rare combination of 1-story + good size + attached garage, north facing, makes this marvelous home a rare find opportunity for San Marino.??4 bedrooms + den & 3 full baths; dual suits; extra large 2-car attached garage; living room with gas fireplace; comfortable family room with built in shelf; formal dining room; large circular driveway; remodeled kitchen & bathrooms; tile roof(2004); dual tankless water heaters(2010); crown moldings; recess lighting; wood flooring; central A/C & Heater; built-in patio; wood shutters.??Living area according to REST and lot size according to assessor's parcel map. Already obtained Certificate of Compliance from city as of 10/22. This is a trust sale with no court confirmation; buyer to satisfy themselves with all aspect of the property. Please note fixed showing schedules in agent's remarks.
Listed with Shawn Chang, Re/Max Premier Prop 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!
SEARCH HOMES FOR SALE IN SAN MARINO
SEARCH OVER 100,000 HOMES FOR SALE IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY, ORANGE COUNTY, RIVERSIDE COUNTY & MORE
Search All homes for sale in San Marino California – direct access to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service):
PLACES TO VISIT IN SAN MARINO:
Huntington Library – Famous for its beautiful Botanical Gardens, British and French Art Collection and has one of the largest collections of rare books and manuscripts outside of the Library of Congress.
Lacy Park – Known best for its Rose Garden and the annual 4th of July Parade. In my opinion, it is one of the prettiest parks in the San Gabriel Valley.
The Old Mill (Molino Viejo) – Oldest standing commercial building Southern California; Used to be the mill for the San Gabriel Mission.
San Marino Public Library – Opened in January of 2008, this library is an absolute pleasure to visit.
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!
Pasadena Views Real Estate Team, Inc.
San Marino Real Estate Agents
(626)629-VIEW (8439)
