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, 31 Mar 2020 17:38:00 +0000: $1,350,000 :: 526 La Mirada Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 1,471 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,628 sq ft
Added: 01/29/20, Last Updated: 03/31/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PW20020433
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Back On Market, buyer did not perform. Style home in the charming Mission District of San Marino, combines quality upgrades with stunning original architectural details. It's on the North of Huntington Dr, San Marino School District, a very clean and cute home. There are original hardwood floors throughout with original hand embossed doors. Also a formal living room with hand painted beams, a fireplace, arched picture window, and french doors that lead to a quaint courtyard patio. Additionally, a formal dining room, large bathroom with separate tub and shower with original tiles, custom build-ins and pedestal sink. Furthermore, an Interior Laundry-Bosch stackable W/D, central A/C and heating system, updated electrical panel and plumbing. There are terracotta warriors hiding behind the green bamboos which surround the backyard. Last but not least, a petite waterfall which flows into a little pond, creating a more homey feel.
Listed with Freeman Wang CalDRE: 01966395, Your Home Sold Guaranteed 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, 30 Mar 2020 13:52:00 +0000: $2,298,000 :: 2680 Tura Lane, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,003 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,202 sq ft
Added: 03/30/20, Last Updated: 03/30/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20065570
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Pride of ownership and updated home in award winning San Marino School District offers spacious living area with 3 en-suite master bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms and located on a quiet cul-de-sac with a circular driveway for convenience. This home offers recent remodeling of Newer custom premium chef's large kitchen with Italian granite counter tops, Viking appliances, new hardwood cabinetry with large center island for gathering for in and out activities. Kitchen also has warming drawers and a wine cellar with seating area and is open to the spacious family room. Family room has a fireplace near formal dining room with bay windows. Large living room with fireplace and new hardwood floors and recessed lighting that flows throughout the home. Top quality new roof, newer Copper plumbing, newer dry walls throughout interior. Newer recessed lightings, newer windows, and sliding doors. Newer tankless water heater, Security system, Nest thermostat and newer furnace and air ducts. Newer soft water system and filtration system and there are all updated bathrooms. Bonus area near living room can be used for office or game/hobby area. All 3 bedrooms are master suites with walk-in closets and remodeled bathrooms. Indoor laundry room, direct access 2 car attached garage and a wonderful backyard for BBQ in a peaceful setting. This home is move in condition and offers easy enjoyment of your life with your family as life is precious!! Do not miss this rare opportunity.
Listed with Imy Dulake CalDRE: 00987845, 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/! - Sun, 29 Mar 2020 14:00:00 +0000: $1,599,000 :: 1435 Rubio Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,055 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,078 sq ft
Added: 03/29/20, Last Updated: 03/29/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS20065289
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Video Tour is ready:http://www.hillsideappraisal.com/video This San Marino Home is 2 blocks from SMHS, 1 mile from Huntington Middle and 1 mile from Carver Elementary schools. A family room next to the living room was added in 1962 but is not included in sq ft on public records--approximately 16 x 14.5 -- is fully open and contiguous to the living room making the sq ft 2055sf (public records shows 1770). Move in ready and well maintained. Five rooms have real Hardwood floors with fresh varnish, new laminate floors in 5 other areas/rooms, dual pane windows throughout, central a/c, attic fan. All the Bedroom closets are very large. 9x12 shed behind the 2 car garage. Cement roof. Digital double oven, ice/water in the door side by side Whirlpool Refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave included, 1 Dual flush toilet and granite sink top in 3/4 bathroom, and has original white tile shower surround. Floor to ceiling 6 shelving in the corner kitchen Pantry, 6 huge linen closets for storage. Vintage 1962 kitchen cabinets and GE electric stove works well, original tile bathroom countertop and floor with tub, hot tub by patio with gazebo. No rear neighbors and fenced for privacy. Unfinished basement with straight staircase is about 7x10. High ceilings in family room with sliding door to patio. Most Staging furniture is available for sale. Sold as is. Fruit Trees: Loquat, Washington orange seedless, Grapefruit, Meyer Lemon, and second small lemon tree.
Listed with SONJA TRONCOSO CalDRE: 01264481, HILLSIDE APPRAISAL
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, 25 Mar 2020 05:41:00 +0000: $1,298,000 :: 1751 S San Gabriel Boulevard, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,574 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,223 sq ft
Added: 03/17/20, Last Updated: 03/25/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS20058412
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Beautiful Home MUST see in person, located in a very easy access to all, great location, hardwood floor through out the house, great home to start a family, best school district in the San Gabriel Valley in San Marino, unbelievable price for such home. One Master suite and two bedroom. Great pool in the back of the house for hot day in California, convince to San Marino and San Gabriel shopping district, Don't just read what I have to said, come see it and you will know right a way.
Listed with MICHAEL LIU CalDRE: 01782573, COLDWELL BANKER DYNASTY/ARC
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Tue, 24 Mar 2020 17:52:00 +0000: $2,585,000 :: 1489 Waverly Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,373 sq ft
Lot Size: 16,553 sq ft
Added: 02/19/20, Last Updated: 03/24/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820000671
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/5/2020 by 6%
Status: Active
This sprawling single-story traditional is located in the heart of San Marino's coveted Library District. The home presents with classic elegance; offering a welcoming front porch, impressively large rooms adorned with bold crown molding, oversized windows and beautiful wainscoting. The original narrow planked hardwood floors are featured throughout most of the home and have remained unspoiled. The delightful sunroom opens to the rear yard featuring a large patio with fireplace which steps down to the lovely grass yard. TRUST SALE
Listed with Vicky Botsford CalDRE: 01184717, 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/! - Wed, 18 Mar 2020 13:51:00 +0000: $3,080,000 :: 2390 Ridgeway Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,597 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,339 sq ft
Added: 03/18/20, Last Updated: 03/18/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20059093
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Located on a picturesque tree-lined street, this classic two-story Colonial home exhibits fine architectural excellence with attention to details. Tastefully remodeled and well maintained, this home has charm and quality throughout. A well-designed floor plan offers 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, spacious living room with fireplace and bay windows, formal dining room, wood paneled library with fireplace, large family room with built-in bookcases, entertainment center, wet bar, fireplace and French doors leading to the private rear garden. State-of-the-art kitchen with center island and breakfast area. The lovely ground has spacious lawn areas, wide brick terrace, lush plantings, mature trees, brick patio and built-in BBQ. This wonderful home is perfect for gracious family living and entertaining.
Listed with Fred Lam CalDRE: 01099825, 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, 17 Mar 2020 20:29:00 +0000: $2,680,000 :: 1649 Banning Way, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 2,770 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,810 sq ft
Added: 03/16/20, Last Updated: 03/17/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20058592
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This beautiful American Colonial home completely restructured and renovated inside & out. The Luxor 4 bedroom suite home tastefully designed with molding & recessed lighting throughout. Upon walking through the front door, you are greeted by a formal living room, build in fireplace and double glass door open to the side patio with brand new wood decking. The open floor plan continues with a formal dining room, family room, full kitchen as well as a closed wok. The monochromatic dual kitchen features brand new Thermador appliances, a built-in fridge, slow-closing cabinetry, and large center island & quartz countertop throughout. Down the hallway is a master suite with a freestanding tub & an adjacent second bedroom. The three French doors in the hallway lead you to a brand new wooden side deck, and a two-car garage. The professionally landscaped backyard includes sufficient shaded areas with fruit trees. As you make your way back in to the house & up the wooden staircase, another spacious bedroom awaits, overlooking the backyard. In addition, there is a fourth guest bedroom by the entryway. Other features of this house include, engineered hardwood floor throughout, tankless water heater, and front door security alarm.
Listed with Grace Yin CalDRE: 01269276, Treeline Realty & Investment
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Fri, 13 Mar 2020 21:55:00 +0000: $1,480,000 :: 2940 Somerset Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,190 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,841 sq ft
Added: 03/13/20, Last Updated: 03/13/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820001057
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Other
Status: Active
Approved plans for 2,200 square foot. Ready to pull permits. Build your own 4 bedroom/ 3 bath dream home. Open floor plan Design, Master Bed & Bath, huge Master Closet, and 9' ceilings throughout. Plans include new Garage. Also for lease at $3,850/ month.
Listed with Peter Loeffler CalDRE: 00913919, 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/! - Tue, 10 Mar 2020 18:23:00 +0000: $1,550,000 :: 589 S Berkeley Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,788 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,951 sq ft
Added: 01/10/20, Last Updated: 03/10/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20007052
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/10/2020 by 3%
Status: Active
Spanish Revival home is located within the City of San Marino. Charming two story home features hardwood floors and Tiles throughout, gourmet kitchen with granite counters and stove by Wolf. Two Bedrooms upstairs with decorative balcony's overlooking the gorgeous backyard. One extra suite (unknown permit status) downstairs by the Sun room with direct access to the backyard great for visitors. Long driveway leading to your two-car detached garage. Dining room with large window facing the welcoming front yard. Spacious kitchen with lots of cabinet spaces. House is within close proximity to SM High School, Colorado Blvd and Supermarkets.
Listed with Henry Liu CalDRE: 01378289, Coldwell Banker Dynasty Arc.
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Sat, 07 Mar 2020 13:10:00 +0000: $6,988,000 :: 2075 Lombardy Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
6 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 6,996 sq ft
Lot Size: 37,898 sq ft
Added: 03/07/20, Last Updated: 03/07/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820000957
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
This striking gated estate on coveted Lombardy Road is unique and one of a kind! 1925 Spanish Colonial Revival home of approximately 7,000 square feet on close to an acre of striking grounds features a 6 bedroom, 6 bath home, pool and spa, sunning areas, separate guest quarters, expansive lawns, lengthy covered arcade with arches and columns, lighted regulation size north/south tennis court with US Open specification surface, majestic mature trees and manicured landscaping. Other features include an impressive foyer, grand formal living room with fireplace, lovely formal dining room, butler's pantry, kitchen opening to the spacious family room, and library with fireplace. The gracious floor plan offers 2 bedrooms with baths downstairs and 4 bedrooms upstairs all with balconies capturing views of the San Gabriel mountains and gorgeous stately grounds. The master suite has 2 walk-in closets, vanity and dressing area, marble bath with tub and spa, separate shower and double sinks. Other details include hardwood flooring, intricately patterned Spanish tiles, ornamental iron work, crafted wall finishes, elaborate crown moldings, archways and five zone central air conditioning and heating. Located in the heart of San Marino, with award winning schools!
Listed with Jean Garr-Roddy CalDRE: 00941946, 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/!
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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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