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, 24 Nov 2020 12:51:00 +0000: $1,780,000 :: 2325 S Los Robles Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,116 sq ft
Lot Size: 17,860 sq ft
Added: 09/29/20, Last Updated: 11/24/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-1785
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active
This gated, character 1925 Mediterranean style home is sited on 0.41 acres, surrounded by a high perimeter hedge. This spacious property features a fenced and heated pool and spa and a well maintained grassy yard with plenty of play space, mature fruit trees, and a sports court. The permitted Guest House, which measures an additional 520 SF of living space has a 3/4 bath, water heater, AC, and private entrance. The house has 3 bedrooms and a den and 2 bathrooms. The living room features a fireplace and is open to the dining room. The recently remodeled kitchen features granite counters and an island/breakfast bar. Features include a remote control access driveway gate, dual pane windows, 3-zone AC with Nest thermostats, new gutters, a tankless water heater, leased solar panels, a security system with remote control video cameras, and a basement with a separate storage room. The exterior of the home, guest house, and oversized garage have all been recently repainted. The location north of Huntington Drive is near restaurants and markets in San Marino's Mission District, Mission and Fair Oaks in South Pasadena and North Alhambra, and the South Pasadena-San Marino YMCA.
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/! - Mon, 23 Nov 2020 22:51:00 +0000: $2,098,000 :: 2304 Melville Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,392 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,859 sq ft
Added: 10/21/20, Last Updated: 11/23/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20220517
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 11/23/2020 by 5%
Status: Active
This single level Ranch exudes character and craftsmanship, situated in the sought-after Sherwood Copse neighborhood of San Marino, with accessibility to award-winning San Marino Schools. This corner lot home boasts manicured landscaped front yard and a two-car garage that is easily accessible through two street frontages. This home uniquely embodies character and charm; it features recessed lighting, ceiling fans, crown molding, custom wood trim around doors and partial windows, a California basement and a backyard storage shed. The elaborate living room has a fireplace, hardwood flooring, and oversized bay windows providing generous natural lights. The dining room is highlighted by wainscoting panels and built-in cabinets which is currently being used as a family room. The office features wood panels, hardwood floors with round pegs, a brick fireplace, and built-in bookshelves. The updated kitchen is well furnished with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, mosaic tile backsplash, and an eat-in breakfast area. The laundry room has a utility sink and access to the side yard. The master bedroom features two closets, and ensuite bathroom with a dual sink vanity, a frameless glass shower room and a separate makeup area. One bedroom was converted to an inspiring dressing room with custom closet organizing system. Relax in the covered patio and socialize with friends in the backyard recreation area with a fire pit, ideal for exceptional alfresco dining or relaxation.
Listed with Jerry Sun CalDRE: 01338788, 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/! - Mon, 23 Nov 2020 22:10:00 +0000: $2,260,000 :: 2788 Cumberland Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,761 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,326 sq ft
Added: 11/23/20, Last Updated: 11/23/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-2415
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active
Welcome to this beautiful home situated on a tree lined street North of Huntington Dr., within walking distance to the award winning San Marino High School. It has nice interiors and an open floor plan with 3 bedroom suites, a powder room, a den, and a family/entertainment room. Additional amenities include crystal chandeliers, newly installed 3 sets of Lincoln aluminum clad French doors, newly installed tankless water heater, dual-zoned central air conditioners, updated gourmet kitchen with professional appliances, gorgeous living room with fireplace, dining room with vaulted ceilings and beautiful views to the backyard, and a spacious master bedroom suite with a huge walk-in steam shower and Jacuzzi tub. This home belongs to a top school district in Southern California, and is perfect for entertaining and comfortable living.
Listed with Josephine Yang CalDRE: 01188008, Coldwell Banker 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, 23 Nov 2020 14:03:00 +0000: $3,490,000 :: 2795 Devonport Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,398 sq ft
Lot Size: 24,947 sq ft
Added: 11/01/20, Last Updated: 11/23/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20245438
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Desirable 3 bedrooms 2 baths south facing house on a large, almost 25,000 sq ft lot! Walking distance to Trader Joes and San Marino High School. Great opportunity to remodel or build a new house - up to 4,900 sq. ft. (There is a sq. ft. bonus if a basement is added so the total buildable square feet can be greater than 4,900). Large galley style kitchen with adjacent laundry/mudroom. 3 car garage, pool, and lots of land. Don't miss this opportunity!
Listed with Benjamin Lin CalDRE: 01383988, RE/MAX 1000 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, 22 Nov 2020 18:16:00 +0000: $4,480,000 :: 1740 Ramiro Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 4,599 sq ft
Lot Size: 18,688 sq ft
Added: 11/22/20, Last Updated: 11/22/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20240208
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
1740 Ramino Rd presents beautiful facade showcasing its magnificent Mediterranean architecture. Situated within the prestigious San Marino Unified School District, also centrally located from famous Huntington Library, Lacy Park, thriving city of Pasadena and Arcadia. The five bedroom home and the backyard has a magnificent resort-like setting with welcoming entry, beautiful tile decorated staircase, each space has its own alluring chandeliers setting the tone, sun-light filled kitchen with custom cabinetry, built-in high-end appliances. Many traditional architectural designs combined with touches of modern design like arched doorway, beautiful hardwood floors, professional wine cellar, updated luxurious mater bathroom and the yoga room. Upstairs are spacious master bedroom with a private balcony and three more bedrooms. Outback is entertainers paradise with professionally landscaped yard, multiple terraces, a stunning staircase leading to the sparkling pool and spa, cascade of French doors leading to the sitting area with built-in outdoor kitchen that can accommodate large parties. This amazing home was recognized by the city of San Marino for its beautifully preserved architectural accomplishment by well-known Jennifer Bevan for her interior design. Seller has done valuable upgrades like: new copper plumbing, newly installed water filteration system and water softner, sprinkler and drip system, and security system for the whole house.
Listed with Anna Wang CalDRE: 01405688, 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/! - Sat, 21 Nov 2020 12:16:00 +0000: $3,750,000 :: 855 Plymouth Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 4,630 sq ft
Lot Size: 32,535 sq ft
Added: 11/20/20, Last Updated: 11/21/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20244259
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Classic Monterey Colonial behind a covered doorway offering timeless elegance and charm that simply can't be replicated. This grand and stately residence will delight anyone who appreciates attention to detail and luxury. Inside, the elegant details continue with gleaming hardwood floors cozy fireplaces, and beautiful window seats. You are spoiled for choice when it comes to comfortable gathering spaces with a formal dining room and living room, with an office and a sun-soaked breakfast nook. All the bedrooms are impeccably presented and inviting. With a wrap around balcony upstairs, plus there's a maid's room which could work as a guest room with a bath and a small tandem office/craft room. Additional accommodation is in the guest/pool house, complete with its own living room, dining alcove, kitchen and bathroom. This private living space also offers a corner brick fireplace for added comfort on those cool winter nights. Endless hours of fun and relaxation await in the shimmering in-ground pool and poolside cabana where you can host guests in style. The large park-like lot is beautifully landscaped with tall mature trees, a lush lawn, and established gardens. This one of a kind home sits along a tranquil street in the Mission District with everything you could need nearby. A life of luxury and leisure is all yours in this spectacular residence that will make you feel as though you're being transported to a private and peaceful haven.
Listed with Pamela DelRey CalDRE: 00864033, Art Del Rey Realty, Inc.
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, 20 Nov 2020 18:20:00 +0000: $2,750,000 :: 1885 Robin Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,191 sq ft
Lot Size: 16,396 sq ft
Added: 11/20/20, Last Updated: 11/20/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS20244363
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
A unique property sitting on almost 17,000 square feet lot in the prestigious city of San Marino, with award-winning schools. 5 bedrooms, 2 master suites, 2 family rooms, storage room, fireplace, formal dining room, modern kitchen. Central air and heat system. Wood burning fireplace. Back yard is Perfect for entertaining and gatherings with family and friends! Can also be your personal sanctuary? for peace and some quiet moment to unwind. You can even play golf at your own back yard! With this fantastic property, you have the flexibility of living it as a big family, or using it as two units, live in one and rent out the other. Currently the one bedroom one bath is being rented at $2,500. Tenants are amazing. Property can be delivered vacant or with tenants, whichever suits your needs!
Listed with SUNNY WONG CalDRE: 01877949, Your Home Sold Guaranteed Rlty
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, 20 Nov 2020 14:44:00 +0000: $6,680,000 :: 2248 S Oak Knoll Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 6,000 sq ft
Lot Size: 32,095 sq ft
Added: 11/20/20, Last Updated: 11/20/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 20662372
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Spectacular San Marino Masterpiece with Tennis Court & Pool. This custom-built home with a semicircular driveway leads into a grand entry-featuring a naturally lit 20ft high ceiling Atrium, is the epitome of a luxurious lifestyle. It is highlighted with an open floor plan, NEW white oak hardwood flooring, NEW paint & recessed lights throughout, 5 generously sized bedrooms with large closets, NEW bathroom & powder room, a living room that features floor to ceiling marble fireplace with a wall of glass doors that opens to front yard. The NEW kitchen, surrounded by glass walls, features quartz waterfall island with prep sink, Professional Thermador & Wolf appliances, European cabinetry, large eating area & handcrafted fireplace. The rear yard has a 9' deep Pool with waterfall, Tennis court, BBQ area, fruit trees & 2 separate attached double car garages. A rare opportunity for a flat .75acre estate with all the lavish amenities in a prestigious neighborhood with TopRated Schools+much more!
Listed with Kary Kang CalDRE: 01842190, Yingji Kang
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, 19 Nov 2020 09:40:00 +0000: $2,399,000 :: 2790 Shakespeare Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,922 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,994 sq ft
Added: 11/19/20, Last Updated: 11/19/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PF20242809
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
First time on the market in 57 years! Located north of Huntington Dr Upper East Side San Marino, turn-key condition, beautiful 4 bedroom home w/ charming custom touches, grand-scale living room (21' x 23') and family room (24' x 29') w/ fireplaces, beamed ceilings and casement windows, surrounded by paradise. The formal living room provides walls of glass panoramic views: the front garden and the park-like, landscaped large backyard with mature fruit trees. Complemented w/ quartz countertops, centered kitchen island, and top-of-the-line appliances (Subzero fridge and Thermador stovetop), the gourmet chef's kitchen is enriched by scenic mountain views and a picturesque sight of blooming Crepe Myrtles. The kitchen opens seamlessly to the grand-scale family room (24' x 29'), w/ beamed ceilings, recessed lighting and custom-built, inlaid-molded cabinets. Solid wood, bi-fold closet doors, cover the length of the classic, polished master suite, which features a separate walk-in dressing room with expansive room-length vanity and closet, en suite bathroom with full tub and shower. This home is ideal for entertainment and leisure, highlights pockets of indoor and outdoor areas—from the living room, formal dining and family room to the private, pool-side cabana. A combination of aesthetics and functionality, the home's notable features include central AC/heating, pristine wood floors, soft-closing kitchen drawers, and plantation shutters. https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=GfnT1QCiPWz
Listed with Elizabeth Kho CalDRE: 00970729, Coldwell Banker 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/! - Wed, 18 Nov 2020 11:22:00 +0000: $2,999,000 :: 1705 Durklyn Court, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,521 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,220 sq ft
Added: 11/18/20, Last Updated: 11/18/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20242279
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This Beautifully Remodeled Ranch style home located in the heart of San Marino, best ranking award winning schools, walking distance to Crowell Library, Middle School, Valentine Elementary School, Huntington Drive shopping and dinning. Quiet cul-de-sac with mature trees and landscaping, features 4 large bedrooms with two suites, 3 remodeled bathrooms plus a den used as office now, state of The art gourmet kitchen with new cabinets, granite counter tops, extra large center island, breakfast area leading to the beautiful rear garden, Fountain, fruit trees, open floor plan for dining with wet bar and the family room. Master suite with Extra large Walk-in closet, attached garage at the front yard with circular driveway, new central AC/Heating system.
Listed with Jean Huang CalDRE: 01053756, E 2000 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/!
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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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