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:
- Tue, 19 Sep 2017 17:25:00 +0000: $3,600,000 :: 2131 Homet Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,343 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,276 sq ft
Added: 06/20/17, Last Updated: 09/19/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR17139117
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/15/2017 by 2%
Status: Active
New price!Completed in 2013, this magnificent custom-built home is the epitome of San Marino's architecture at its finest. Nestled in one of San Marino's exclusive neighborhoods, this south-facing property has mountain views and easy access to shopping as well as San Marino's award winning school district. The 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath property comes complete with downstairs guest bedroom perfect for nanny or overnight guest. Master suite has jet soaking tub, sauna, shower; voluminous walk-in closet has been strategically designed with the potential to be used as nursery. Designed with features for the discerning buyer including grand chandeliers, marble flooring, and a gourmet main and wok kitchen, complete with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances. Elegant built-in cabinetry, wet bar, exquisite imported quartzite jade counter tops, and two laundry areas. A rare find and must-see!
Listed with Keller Williams 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, 19 Sep 2017 12:15:00 +0000: $1,850,000 :: 1300 Winston Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,694 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,761 sq ft
Added: 09/19/17, Last Updated: 09/19/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR17216317
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Charming California Ranch style home located on a tree lined street North of Huntington in San Marino. This home consists of 3 bedrooms and 2 baths with family room, formal dining room, beautiful sunroom that open to a large lot consisting of over 12,000 square feet. Kitchen has a darling bay window perfect for looking out to the yard while sitting in your kitchen. This beautiful property has been remodeled with all new kitchen and baths as well as hardwood floors and fixtures. All new Anderson wood cased windows have also been installed throughout and shows extremely well. The generous size backyard consists of a in ground jacuzzi, a outdoor patio area to the rear of the backyard as well as a 2 car garage. Come check out this incredibly charming property in one San Marino's nicest areas with San Marino Schools.
Listed with 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/free-home-search/! - Tue, 19 Sep 2017 10:08:00 +0000: $5,780,000 :: 1351 Bedford Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
6 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 5,702 sq ft
Lot Size: 19,602 sq ft
Added: 09/19/17, Last Updated: 09/19/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: CV17215481
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Located in the prestigious Huntington Library area of San Marino, this immaculately maintained French Country Estate offers the best of San Marino. Beautifully remodeled & updated, this luxury home offers both a traditional feel & modern convenience in its intelligent 6 bedroom, 6 baths, 5,702 sq.ft. floor plan (per REST) which sits on a 19,881 sq.ft. lot. The formal areas offer an elegant feel with high ceilings in the entry, peg & groove wood floors, & a huge living room with large windows & views of the gorgeous yard, recessed lighting, & a spectacular fireplace. The adjacent formal library is clad with beautiful rich woods, large windows, & serves as a the perfect place to work or entertain. The spacious formal dining room is another showpiece with an elegant chandelier, custom moldings, & large windows. The kitchen was recently remodeled with custom cabinets, beautiful granite counters, a spacious breakfast nook & top of the line appliances such as the Thermador refrigerator and freezer, a food warming area, & a professional ice maker. The large master bedroom is complete with fireplace, sitting area, walk-in closet, & a completely remodeled master bath. The 4 other bedrooms are spacious and bright. The professional landscaped yard features a large pool & spa, outdoor fireplace, & beautiful mature trees. All of this luxury includes an ideal location just blocks from San Marino’s top rated Elementary & Middle schools. This San Marino home is truly a masterpiece!
Listed with IRN 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, 19 Sep 2017 00:23:00 +0000: $1,298,000 :: 2240 El Molino Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,120 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,018 sq ft
Added: 09/18/17, Last Updated: 09/19/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR17211583
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This magnificent example of mid-century modern architecture located in the prestigious San Marino north of Huntington Drive is a wonderful opportunity for mid-century modern aficionados to restore this home to it's original post-World War II, "Mad Men" glory days. The double door entry opens to a spacious foyer and living room with a roman brick fireplace and wraparound windows overlooking the abundant fruit trees adorning the property. Built for entertaining, the kitchen opens to a bright and airy family room with fireplace and eating area overlooking the pool and patio. The master suite opens to the pool area. Neutral tile floors throughout with berber-style carpet in the bedrooms and living room. Loads of original built in storage throughout. Sold As-Is, no repairs to be made. Pre inspection report available. Make offers accordingly. First time on the market in over 50 years, this home offers an excellent value in the superior, award-winning San Marino school district.
Listed with 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/free-home-search/! - Mon, 18 Sep 2017 18:22:00 +0000: $2,590,000 :: 1022 Roxbury Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,707 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,583 sq ft
Added: 01/07/17, Last Updated: 09/18/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS16769318
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/19/2017 by 3%
Status: Active
This is a beautiful upgraded single story home with extra wide frontage (garage entrance is at Darby Rd). Location is prime, near award winning school and library. This home features an open floor plan with elegant wood flooring and French doors. All appliances are top of the line. Custom entertainment center, built in cabinets and drawers all with soft-close technology, custom bookshelves, custom closets, crown moldings are all designed with delicate taste. Family room also has a built in wet bar, icemaker, and wine cooler. Den can be used as an a formal dining room, an extra room, or an office. The patio doors lead into a lush green backyard with a designer entertainment pool and spa.
Listed with DOLLY 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/! - Mon, 18 Sep 2017 16:46:00 +0000: $1,698,000 :: 1730 Rubio Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,749 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,583 sq ft
Added: 09/18/17, Last Updated: 09/18/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS17215870
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
One story single family home located within prestige San Marino school district, quiet street, 9,751 of lot with swimming pool, It features 3 bed room and 2 full baths, formal dining room, Hardwood floor throughout the home, new tile roof, new tile floor in kitchen & one bathroom, new paint in & out, individual laundry room, french door open to spacious back yard, 2 car detached garage, walking distance to San Marino high school. Buyer to cooperate with seller 1031 exchange but no cost to the buyer.
Listed with 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/free-home-search/! - Sun, 17 Sep 2017 14:37:00 +0000: $1,850,000 :: 2830 Somerset Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,311 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,712 sq ft
Added: 06/15/17, Last Updated: 09/17/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR17136221
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 6/16/2017 by 7%
Status: Active
Enjoy a little bit of paradise as you enter this stylish, single-level San Marino home that proudly sits on 9,025 sq ft of lush landscaping. The welcoming entry is a fitting prelude to the perfectly proportioned interior. This special residence features 3 unique and charming bedrooms, 3 baths, beautiful hardwood floors, large windows, 2 fireplaces, unique and recessed lighting, a gorgeous swimming pool with sparkling spa and wrought iron gate, 2 car garage and more that only visit can satisfy your senses. The well-appointed Master features a view of the swimming pool through a blissful bay window with plantation shutters, a spacious master bathroom with soaking tub and large window, and large mirrored closet doors. The kitchen features a professional-quality stove, farmhouse-style sink, a light and bright breakfast nook, a separate laundry room with extra storage and a door leading to the backyard and detached garage area. Various French doors lead to the lattice covered patio to offer light and shade. This exceptional home that offers both elegance and convenience is the pride of ownership you have been waiting for.
Listed with SLJ Real Estate & Financial
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 Sep 2017 20:25:00 +0000: $2,280,000 :: 1395 S San Gabriel Boulevard, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,726 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,890 sq ft
Added: 07/01/17, Last Updated: 09/15/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS17138897
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/1/2017 by 4%
Status: Active
A rare find spectacular modern luxury home built in 1997. Walk to San Marino High School. Marble entry with guest closets and powder room, elegant living room with fireplace, marble floor formal dining room, butler pantry, spacious family room with cathedral high ceiling and fireplace, wet bar and french doors to covered patio, gourmet kitchen with center island, breakfast nook, 2 enormous master suites upstairs with walk-in closets, A private bedroom suite with full bath and 2 additional bedrooms with Jack and Jill bath are on the main floor, stylish new paint throughout. Exclusive swimming pool and spa, basketball court, fruit trees, wide frontage, verdant hedges and mature trees surrounded, private and gated driveway leads to a 3-car detached garage.
Listed with IRN 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 Sep 2017 20:25:00 +0000: $4,588,000 :: 1680 Oak Grove Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 4,181 sq ft
Lot Size: 32,234 sq ft
Added: 06/08/17, Last Updated: 09/15/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR17127205
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 6/9/2017 by 6%
Status: Active
Huge price reduction $300,000! Originally designed by Norwood & De Longe in 1953. This mid-century Traditional style home resides on an over 32,599 sq ft of exquisite grounds with circular driveway. The home features 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths & powder room. Double door entry and open floor plan. Formal entry foyer leads to Living Room with fire place & display shelves and beautiful Formal Dining room with skylights opens to spacious Family Room with fireplace and sliding door open to rear patios and breath taking view of the backyard. Den with built-ins, bar, and sliding door open to patio and spa. Gourmet Kitchen with granite and tile counter tops, light wood cabinets, recessed lighting and skylights. Breakfast Nook with view of side patio and fountain. Master Suite with built in storage closets and walk in closet with dressing area, sliding glass doors open to the patios, spa and deck. Master Bathroom with marble tiled tub and separate shower. Lower level Bonus Entertainment Room with a fireplace. Two attached car garage with direct access to the house. Beautiful professionally landscaped romantic garden, two large patio decks, gazebo, pool, spa, fire pit, walking trail, and many more! Award winning San Marino schools.
Listed with Re/Max Omega
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, 13 Sep 2017 13:06:00 +0000: $2,150,000 :: 943 Roxbury Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,414 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,196 sq ft
Added: 09/13/17, Last Updated: 09/13/17
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 817001831
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Light & breezy, this classic 1937 Monterey Colonial style traditional is designed for the ultimate California lifestyle: year-round indoor/outdoor living & entertaining. This bright, spacious 2-story home with well-proportioned layout is a delight from top to bottom. French windows & doors abound, bringing in plenty of sunshine reflecting off the refinished light oak floors. Kitchen remodeled with stylish & elegant finishes. Downstairs Bedroom & remodeled Bath ideal for guests or nanny. New lighting and paint throughout. Original character details such as Juliet balcony, stained glass window, sconce lighting, corner built-ins. Pool & 431sf Pool House permitted but not counted in square footage. Huge back yard with 2 lawn areas & separate Workshop. Your luxury lifestyle begins here.
Listed with 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/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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