San Marino

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 Real Estate:

Wed, 23 Apr 2014 12:56:00 +0000: $2,750,000 :: 2285 Huntley Circle Circle, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 3,677 sq ft
Lot Size: 16,900 sq ft
Added: 04/23/14, Last Updated: 04/23/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214014725
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Active

A gracious 1-story California traditional home situated on a private cul-de-sac, w/large lot, (16,910 SQ.FT.) No. of Huntington Drive. This is a very desirable location w/in close proximity to all schools, the Huntington Library & downtown San Marino. This property features: 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, powder room, inviting living room w/floor to ceiling stone fireplace & walls of glass overlooking center courtyard, elegant formal dining room w/curved windows overlooking front gardens, a handsome library/office w/a wall of built in book shelves & storage below. The spacious state of the art gourmet kitchen features: all appliances, center-island w/breakfast bar, eat in breakfast area, an abundance of storage cupboards, travertine marble flooring, family room w/fireplace & bookshelves that overlooks the pool, patios, & rear gardens. The professionally landscaped front&rear gardens includes concrete & natural exposed aggregate driveway, motor court, planted flower & rose gardens & gated pool.

Listed with Linda Chang (w/ Brent Chang), 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!
Wed, 23 Apr 2014 12:26:00 +0000: $2,500,000 :: 1240 San Marino Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

5 beds, 2 full, 2 part baths
Home size: 3,448 sq ft
Lot Size: 19,369 sq ft
Added: 03/26/14, Last Updated: 04/23/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214008579
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Conditional

First time on the market in over 42 years. Meticulously maintained elegant home situated on over a 19,000 square foot flat lot in a very desirable San Marino area. Superb floor plan features a charming formal entry, gracious living room with fireplace that leads to a formal dining room, gourmet kitchen and inviting spacious family room. The family room opens to a large patio and lovely gardens, pool, spa and waterfall. Five bedrooms including a spacious Master Suite. Crown molding and hardwood flooring in most rooms. An office opens to a two-car attached garage. The home also features a two zoned central air conditioning system, security system, double paned windows, recessed lighting, French doors, automatic sprinklers and underground utilities.

Listed with Ann Chen (w/ Mary Haltom), 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!
Wed, 23 Apr 2014 11:58:00 +0000: $5,200,000 :: 2463 Ridgeway Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 1 full, 4 part baths
Home size: 4,333 sq ft
Lot Size: 29,557 sq ft
Added: 03/05/14, Last Updated: 04/23/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214006207
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 4/23/2014 by 11%
Status: Active

This private estate is situated on 30,000 sq ft. lot on sought-after Ridgeway Road N.of Huntington Dr. The meticulously maintained property features a flowing floor plan that orients towards a resort style pool area and professionally landscaped grnds. On the upper level an entry & living & dining room with fireplace, family room with fireplace, kitchen w/ large center island & breakfast bar, subzero refrigerator, double ovens, desk area, separate laundry room, & two powder rooms. The master suite features a sitting area, generous master bath w/ soaking tub, glass enclosed shower, marble tile flooring, granite counters, adjacent private zen garden. Two secondary bedrooms share a spacious bath. The kitchen, family room & master bedroom offer sliding door access to a rear balcony running the length of the house & overlooking the rear grounds and twinkle light views. At the pool level, a game room with bar & fireplace, guest bedroom & a huge bathroom offer poolside convenience and fun.

Listed with Mei-Mei Liu, Sotheby''s International 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!
Wed, 23 Apr 2014 11:07:00 +0000: $2,400,000 :: 1570 WILSON AVE, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 3 full baths
Home size: 3,100 sq ft
Lot Size: 14,710 sq ft
Added: 04/22/14, Last Updated: 04/23/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 14754241
Community: San Marino
Tract: Los Robles
Status: Active

Mid-Century Modern on large level lot in prime San Marino. Set back from the street behind gates with a large motor-court on a gorgeous tree-lined street this 1 story 4 bedroom 3 bath home is just cool. The formal entry leads to a large living room, dining area and lanai that opens to the backyard. The kitchen with breakfast area looks out and opens to the backyard. The large master suite is separate from other bedrooms and opens to a private deck. There are 3 additional family bedrooms, on with a private lanai. This lot size and location and setting offer unlimited potential.

Listed with Gary Gold, Hilton & Hyland

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, 23 Apr 2014 09:53:00 +0000: $2,186,000 :: 2724 Carlaris Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 3 full baths
Home size: 2,555 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,801 sq ft
Added: 03/19/14, Last Updated: 04/23/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214010642
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Active

Exquisite Mediterranean home located in San Marino''s sought-after Mission District. The grand living room features high vaulted ceiling and beams, fireplace,and built-in alcove cabinets, antique sconces, and large window with beautiful street view. Formal entry with beautiful stone tiles leads to the wide stairway with elegant railing. Dining room with large window and tile designs around the Oak hardwood floor. Gourmet kitchen with new granite counter, custom cabinets, and Viking stove, and opens to a separate breakfast room. All bedrooms with walk-in closet, all bathrooms remodeled. Backyard with a new wooden deck, new concrete driveway, 3-car detached garage, professional landscaped. This house is re-piping throughout (copper main), new & updated electrical, new resurfaced Oak hardwood floor, refinished balconies, new tankless water heater, new HVAC, new interior/exterior paint. This home has been completely remodeled and updated. A must see! Agents, see agent remarks for info

Listed with Jane Wang, 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!
Tue, 22 Apr 2014 16:15:00 +0000: $3,980,000 :: 1270 Mesa Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

3 beds, 3 full, 2 part baths
Home size: 3,904 sq ft
Lot Size: 24,000 sq ft
Added: 01/01/14, Last Updated: 04/22/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214000045
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
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!
Mon, 21 Apr 2014 09:26:00 +0000: $3,260,000 :: 1903 Windsor Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

5 beds, 2 full, 2 part baths
Home size: 3,572 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,310 sq ft
Added: 04/18/14, Last Updated: 04/21/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214013499
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Active

This fabulous Mediterranean Revival estate will charm you from the first moment you arrive. Every Character detail has been restored and enhanced. Every system has been brought to state of the art quality. Outstanding details include the rich Hardwood flooring, custom tiles, wrought iron detailing, archways between rooms and Juliet Balconies. A gourmet Kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, center island with prep sink, wine fridge and seating as well as a walk-in Pantry. Flowing to the Great Room with built-ins, eating area and fireplace with French doors to the outside entertaining and cooking. There are formal Entry, Living Room and Dining rooms. Completing the downstairs are a Bedroom, Bath, Office and Mud Room. Upstairs is the Master Bedroom Suite with 2 closets, soaking tub, double sinks, steam shower and privacy toilet. Additional 2 Bedroom & 2 Bath have adjacent landing adding flexibility in living. Off the newly constructed Garage is the 5th Bedroom.

Listed with Kay Leavens, 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!
Fri, 18 Apr 2014 10:58:00 +0000: $1,699,000 :: 2380 Sherwood Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 1,709 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,566 sq ft
Added: 04/08/14, Last Updated: 04/18/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214012875
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Conditional

Exquisite one story Traditional home on a quiet tree lined street in San Marino. Professionally decorated, this property is for the most discriminating buyer who desires a residence that is in move-in condition. Features include hardwood floors, French doors, crown moldings and custom window coverings. The remodeled kitchen has top of the line appliances, a built-in desk and informal dining area with a window seat. The private master suite overlooks the rear gardens and has a luxurious remodeled bath. French doors in the dining room open out to a covered brick patio. The meticulously maintained front and rear gardens can be viewed through the many windows throughout the home.

Listed with Marlene Evans, 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!
Fri, 18 Apr 2014 08:56:00 +0000: $1,188,000 :: 1670 Sherwood Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 1,572 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,268 sq ft
Added: 04/02/14, Last Updated: 04/18/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214012490
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Conditional

Beautiful French inspired One Story Charmer in excellent condition - Beautifully landscaped. Deep Lot. Remodeled baths.

Listed with Maureen Hollingsworth, Sotheby''s International 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!
Mon, 14 Apr 2014 22:53:00 +0000: $1,250,000 :: 1730 Sharon Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 1,847 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,275 sq ft
Added: 04/01/14, Last Updated: 04/14/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214011256
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Conditional

Charming traditional style 3 Br. 2 Ba. LR, DA, FR, Central air and heat, recently updated with new bathroom fixtures, new carpet in Family Room, recessed lighting and freshly painted thru out.Dual sided Fireplace serves both living and family rooms. Family room has built in book case and wired for entertainment center. Peg & groove hardwood floors in Living room and bedrooms. Kitchen has built-ins, granite counter tops and ample storage. Has pool and spa for Summer fun. This beautiful home is situated on a tree lined street in quiet location. Nice and very wide front yard with great curb appeal. Close proximity to Carver Elementary School, SM High School, post office and Super Markets. This is a move in ready and now one of the most affordable homes in San Marino.

Listed with Soma Warna, Soma Warna Real Estate Svcs.

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!

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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.