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:
- Wed, 08 Jul 2020 13:31:00 +0000: $2,400,000 :: 1285 S San Gabriel Boulevard, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,353 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,655 sq ft
Added: 07/08/20, Last Updated: 07/08/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20133273
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This brand new, contemporary home boasts an unmatched sophistication. It is nestled in the highly sought after San Marino neighborhood. This estate features an open floor plan with 2353 sq-ft of living space. The home features an abundance of natural light, granite tile and natural hardwood flooring throughout. This open floor plan consists of a spacious family room with French Doors that lead you to the well manicured landscaped backyard. Be amazed by the gourmet kitchen with professional grade stainless steel appliances and Italian design cabinetry. All bedrooms have en-suite baths. Close proximity to restaurants, shopping malls, and schools. Come take a look and you will surely fall in love with your new home!
Listed with Wenjia Li CalDRE: 02004684, Re/Max Advanced 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, 07 Jul 2020 05:26:00 +0000: $3,600,000 :: 2860 Gainsborough Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,588 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,607 sq ft
Added: 06/27/20, Last Updated: 07/07/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20124863
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Walking distance to prestigious top-ranking San Marino High School! Gorgeous newer 2016 custom built luxury home on a large gated landscaped lot! Featuring beautiful design with 4 bedrooms suites, including a downstairs bedroom suite. Enjoy the elegant formal living room and dining room with two-way see through fireplace. Gourmet kitchen with huge center island, detailed custom cabinetry, pantry, bar and breakfast nook. Chef's/Wok kitchen and laundry room offers a great combination of functional space. Open family room with French doors to the large covered patio and spacious gated backyard, perfect for outdoor to indoor living! Relax upstairs in the bonus loft or in the large master bedroom suite with double walk-in closets and balcony. Luxurious master bathroom offers a jetted spa tub, separate shower, and dual sink vanity. Additional amenities include downstairs executive office, formal entry with high ceilings, custom fixtures and design details, and much more! Make this your dream home in the highly sought after San Marino School district!
Listed with Peggy Fong Chen CalDRE: 01461698, 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/! - Mon, 06 Jul 2020 10:34:00 +0000: $1,595,000 :: 2707 E California Boulevard, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,393 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,064 sq ft
Added: 07/06/20, Last Updated: 07/06/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820002544
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Classic San Marino mid-century home situated on a shady park-like 15,064 sq ft lot. Appointed with architectural details that defined the simplicity of 1950's living - spacious rooms, easy flowing floor plan, hardwood floors, large living room with fireplace, and a formal dining room. Wonderful family room with brick fireplace, and sliding glass doors that open out to an oversized patio, expansive rear yard and sports court. Light and airy kitchen features new stainless steel appliances and a separate breakfast area. Spacious master bedroom suite with rear garden views, and two additional bedrooms, one currently being used as an office.
Listed with Kelley Brock CalDRE: 00772692, deasy penner podley
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Sat, 04 Jul 2020 21:55:00 +0000: $1,788,000 :: 815 Sussex Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,235 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,019 sq ft
Added: 07/04/20, Last Updated: 07/04/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820002533
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Other
Status: Active
San Marino's Award Winning School District is the location of this comfortable traditional style home that has not been on the market since 1973. You'll appreciate the convenient location of being near Lacy Park, Mission Street Shops, Langham Hotel, Huntington Library and Crowell Public Library. This diamond in the rough provides the perfect opportunity to personalize the home with your own selective touches! The spacious living room and dining area boasts a fireplace, built-in hutch and lots of windows allowing an abundance of natural light to fill the room. Cozy den with a second fireplace offers views of and access to the backyard and has a wall of shelving to display family treasures and features lots of extra storage. A spacious kitchen features a cozy breakfast area perfect for casual dining. Just off the kitchen is a quaint office nook and spacious laundry room with utility sink. There is a detached multi-purpose room currently used as a workshop that could easily be converted to an office or a gym. The back patio is great for entertaining friends and family or intimate al-fresco dining. Mature landscaping in the spacious backyard provides privacy and is an ideal place for active children or the gardener in the family. Priced well!
Listed with Reni Rose CalDRE: 00975915, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Sat, 04 Jul 2020 11:08:00 +0000: $1,818,000 :: 1967 San Salvatore Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,608 sq ft
Lot Size: 14,889 sq ft
Added: 07/04/20, Last Updated: 07/04/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS20126843
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Celebrate old glory's strength and beauty on a 14,888 square foot lot, nearly entirely rebuilt from ground up in 2010 featuring square footage expansion, new walls, flooring, dual pane window and wood shutters, skylight, plumbing, electrical, recessed lighting, roof, landscaping, dual central air/heat, fire sprinklers and alarms, waterfall and pond, electric gate and many finishing touches you must see to appreciate. Can you imagine?
Listed with CHARLIE LAC CalDRE: 01777052, SAN GABRIEL VALLEY 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, 03 Jul 2020 15:41:00 +0000: $3,148,000 :: 1295 Roanoke Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,568 sq ft
Lot Size: 14,375 sq ft
Added: 07/03/20, Last Updated: 07/03/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820002521
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Architect A.J. Wilson designed, elegant Monterey Colonial , features quality & architect. details. Highlights original hwd. flrs. wd beam ceilings, crown moldings, wainscoting, 2 balconies, 3 fireplaces, 2 wet bars, stained glass window & solid oak doors. There are 4 Brs. 4 Bths. FR., cedar closet & ample storage. The Master Br. has full bath w/Carrera marble floors, a lrg. dress. area, & 2 Balconies.3rd. & 4th. brms. have Jack & Jill bth. w/soaking tub, stall shower, & tile floors. Modern kitchen has granite counter tops, Jenn-Air appliances, built-ins, hwd. flrs. a Bay window. & adj. stacked laundry units. Downstairs br. w/ full bth. ,multiple book cases & lrg. closet is ideal as a library or as a guests Br. FR with wet bar, Fpl., refrigerator, ice maker, limestone flrs, wd/beam ceilings & 3/4 bath w/exit to pool area is for your re-imagination. Rock accented, custom built, heated & lighted pool & Jacuzzi, custom patio off of Fr. create perfect ambiance for outdoor entertaining or alfresco dining. Tastefully decorated home has custom drapery, plantation shutters, matching light fixtures, ample storage, lush landscaping, pool, 3 Car/G.& perimeter block wall. This classic home depicts quality throughout. & is in close proximity to award winning SM school
Listed with Soma Warna CalDRE: 00772905, 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/free-home-search/! - Thu, 02 Jul 2020 12:55:00 +0000: $2,688,000 :: 1715 S El Molino Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,030 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,197 sq ft
Added: 02/03/20, Last Updated: 07/02/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820000407
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
The price of this listing was last increased on 7/2/2020 by 4%
Status: Active
Updated 1928 character Spanish Revival style home sited on a spacious lot of nearly 12,000 SF, including front and back yards with expansive lawns, lush green landscape, mature trees and gardens, and a salt water swimming pool. Secluded behind a privacy hedge on beautiful El Molino Avenue, the property is in the heart of San Marino's Mission District, north of Huntington Dr., within close proximity to specialty shops, restaurants and large parks. This 2-story residence offers 3,030 SF of living space that is filled with richness, romance and many architectural details. The dramatic step-down grand living room features a high barrel ceiling, large picture windows, French doors, with a charming gas and wood-burning fireplace adorned with tile details. There are 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, spacious formal dining room, a den with fireplace, wet bar, breakfast room, and an updated Doug Ewing architect-designed chef's kitchen, a Cal. basement used as a wine cellar, garage w/ home office and 3/4 bath. Mature landscaping, original orange tree, tall Deodar tree & old-growth camellias. Recently updated systems, incl. new pool equip. , new A/C units, updated electric, Copper plumbing, soft water system. Top rated schools! https://1715selmolinoavenue.mycirclevisions.com
Listed with Sarah Rogers CalDRE: 01201812, COMPASS
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Thu, 02 Jul 2020 06:46:00 +0000: $2,298,000 :: 2495 Coniston Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,110 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,712 sq ft
Added: 07/01/20, Last Updated: 07/02/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820002495
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Other
Status: Active
Located on a quiet residential street in San Marino, this French Revival was designed by famed architect Thomas Mulvin and built by the William C. Cromwell Company in the quaint Period Revival Neighborhood. Well-maintained & painstakingly updated by the current owner, this home offers timeless beauty and modern amenities. A flagstone walkway invites one to the welcoming front porch. The elegant step-down formal LR is anchored by a fireplace & features a coffered ceiling & French doors to the veranda. The beautiful formal DR is highlighted by a classy chandelier & a handsome French bay window. The expansive KIT boasts custom cabinetry, granite countertops, & a central cooking island featuring a Bertazzoni cooktop. A wet bar equipped with a wine cooler & breakfast counter connects the KIT & FR. The delightful FR features a brick fireplace and French doors open to the back patio. An office/study; a lovely guest suite; and a powder room complete the ground floor. On the 2nd floor there are 2 bedrooms connected by an updated bath & an elegant master suite with multiple closets and a luxurious master bath. The lush side yard features a manicured lawn & a veranda offering unsurpassed indoor/outdoor living & entertaining.
Listed with Calvin Lo CalDRE: 01869122, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California 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/! - Wed, 01 Jul 2020 16:07:00 +0000: $2,780,000 :: 1255 Lorain Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,404 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,535 sq ft
Added: 03/10/20, Last Updated: 07/01/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20053669
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Stunning two story Spanish Mediterranean style property in prestigious neighborhood features 4 brms 3 baths, an office, central air and heat with oversized lots. Elegant formal living room has a handsome fireplace, coved, high beamed ceilings, hardwood floor in formal living room and family room, built in display shelves & french doors. Formal dining room has built in buffet. There is a large family room that opens to the back yard. One bedroom downstairs with a bathroom could be used as guests suite or library. The master suite upstairs with private bath, two other family bedrooms, a bath and an office offer the space for the discerning family. Gourmet kitchen has Viking stove, Bosch dishwasher, Sub Zero fridge, granite counter tops, maple cabinetry, pantry & tile floor. The child friendly big yard is complete with play set & a sparkling pool. Adjacent to the 2 car garage is a multi-purpose 210 sqft room ideal for an office or a gym. This home is tastefully modernized, preserving the charm & grace of old world craftsmanship. San Marino School.
Listed with Peter Cheng CalDRE: 01800721, 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/! - Sat, 27 Jun 2020 16:08:00 +0000: $2,098,000 :: 840 Winthrop Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,454 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,836 sq ft
Added: 06/25/20, Last Updated: 06/27/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS20099025
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Lazy summer afternoons on the Mediterranean meet clean, modern lines in this stunning Spanish Hacienda. Down a grassy drive, past well-tended gardens, is the private entrance. Inside, crisp white walls, light floors, and bright accents exemplify today’s design trends. The open floor plan centers around the living and dining rooms, an impressive space bright with natural sunlight. The chef’s kitchen is finished in cool green tones, Calacatta quartz, and array of high-end appliances. The master suite, elegant to be sure, is appointed with a custom walk-in closet, marble tile, and soaking tub, while French doors, adorned with a spectacular gate, swing open to the lovely patio. There are two more en suite bedrooms; another room, used as an office, could be converted to a fourth bedroom. A finished basement performs double duty as wine cellar and gym, while a converted garage is ideal for a home office, art studio, etc. The brick exterior and tile roof further support the exotic theme. At night, under the pergola, with strings of lights and custom water feature, it’s pure magic. A gracious stairway leads to a terraced garden and lower yard. No matter the size or occasion this extraordinary property is designed to enjoy. Freeway close, and minutes from San Marino’s beloved Mission District shops, you don’t want to miss this exceptional property.
Listed with PETER LOEFFLER CalDRE: 00913919, RE/MAX PREMIER/SANMARINO
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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