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:
- Sat, 23 Mar 2019 01:29:00 +0000: $1,880,000 :: 1965 S El Molino S Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,075 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,311 sq ft
Added: 03/22/19, Last Updated: 03/23/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19064183
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
1965 S El Molino is a well kept one level traditional home, with 4 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths, located north of Huntington Drive near the Mission village area. It is within walking distance to coffee shop, restaurants and shopping. Property is enclosed by gate and has lush green front and back yards of vegetation and fruit trees. The spacious living room has a high ceiling, leaded glass windows and a beautiful fireplace. The dining area has a built-in corner display shelf. 2 of the bedrooms are attached to their own baths and another 2 bedrooms share the third full-size bath on either side of the house. One of the bedrooms has a patio door which opens out to a small private side-yard well suited for meditation or relaxation. Next to the remodeled kitchen with granite top is a cozy breakfast area and separate laundry room. Other amenities include: enclosed front yard with electric gate, fireplace, crown molding, recessed lights, hardwood floor throughout, central air and heat, automatic sprinklers front and back, newer windows, newer concrete pavers on the driveway, surveillance system.
Listed with Beatrice Li-Wong CalDRE: 00924087, Li & Associates
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, 21 Mar 2019 23:23:00 +0000: $1,650,000 :: 1650 Las Flores Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,912 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,840 sq ft
Added: 03/21/19, Last Updated: 03/21/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 819001224
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Other
Status: Active
There's no place like this perfectly located 3 large BR, 2 BA family home over the rainbow in San Marino's hip Mission District! Landscaped yard leads to marbled entry off spacious living room. Fireplace framed by twin built in cabinetry hardwood floors & crown molding. LR opens to dining room next to kitchen, or opens to a large family room. From there, French doors lead to flat, fully enclosed back yard with room for parties & projects. Detached 2 car garage opens to large hardscape, leading to gated driveway street access. Copper plumbing, attic fan, fruit trees (loquat, seedless tangerines and lemon) & mature shrubbery. Situated in a neighborhood of families whose kids attend San Marino Unified School District's award-winning schools and nearby private schools. Children safely learn to ride bikes in the U-shaped neighborhood where dogs enjoy walking their owners to the nearby gym and unique Mission street restaurants, salons and eclectic retail and service shops, yet convenient to surrounding cities and 110, 210, 134, 710 & 10 freeways. Buyer to satisfy as to condition before making any offers as price reflects condition; Sellers will make no repairs. One owner holds attorney & brokers'licenses. Per SM, can add to about 2700 total sq.ft on lot.
Listed with Robert Graham CalDRE: 01231958, Graham 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, 20 Mar 2019 14:50:00 +0000: $2,620,000 :: 2355 Roanoke Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,304 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,451 sq ft
Added: 03/19/19, Last Updated: 03/20/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19061965
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Charming and comfortable ranch style house in one of the best location of San Marino. 3 Bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Formal dinning room and Upgraded kitchen with top of the line appliances, breakfast nook and laundry area. Warm family room looking to gorgeous back yard and swimming pool. Inviting living room with recessed lighting and fireplace. The entire house was renovated in 2014. Close to Huntington Dr, San Marino high school, middle school, library and police department. Safe and quiet living environment. Gorgeous front yard and back yard. Many mature fruit trees in back yard. Avocado trees and a grapefruit tree. Swimming Pool and barbecue area will make you relaxing. Must see inside to appreciate. No.1 School district in Los Angeles.
Listed with Zhiman Jia CalDRE: 01907876, Skyway Investment Corp.
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Tue, 19 Mar 2019 15:20:00 +0000: $2,590,000 :: 2205 El Molino Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,073 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,430 sq ft
Added: 03/19/19, Last Updated: 03/19/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19060416
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Graceful colonial style home located North of Huntington Drive in beautiful San Marino. Stunning curb appeal with lavish greenery, and charming brickwork with white picket fence. Bright and airy with plenty of windows in every room. Newly painted inside and out, new tile floors in kitchen and breakfast room; features rich amenities including peg-and-groove hardwood floors, plantation shutters, and built-in corner vanity. Four bedrooms and four baths, with one en-suite bedroom downstairs. Also downstairs is the large living room and family room with striking stone mantel fireplaces, kitchen with granite counters and abundant cabinets, and a sweet breakfast room overlooking the backyard. Up the elegant circular stairs, you’ll find an over-sized master bedroom and bath, and bedrooms joined by a charming Jack-and-Jill bathroom. The very private backyard is perfect for entertaining: whether it’s a pool party with friends or a relaxing night with the family. Pool house includes fireplace and a wet bar, custom built-in BBQ grill, and a gated pool with spa. Convenient 3-car garage. Close to Lacy Park, Crowell Public Library, charming boutiques and restaurants, and the best school district in California! The pool house is not included in square footage.
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/! - Tue, 19 Mar 2019 15:07:00 +0000: $4,180,000 :: 765 Canterbury Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 4,653 sq ft
Lot Size: 16,988 sq ft
Added: 10/17/18, Last Updated: 03/19/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 818005116
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Manicured garden and circular driveway beckons you into this sophisticated Colonial Revival home in the most coveted location of San Marino. Old world charm throughout, this spectacular home was built in 1937 featuring crown moldings, wainscoting, hardwood floors, built-ins & generous windows creating light-filled rooms & highlighting the beauty of California living.Lower level features formal entry, spacious living room, family room, office/formal dining room, bedroom suite and a gorgeous chef kitchen with butler pantry, breakfast area & bar.2nd level offers two master en suites, a guest wing with an additional two bedrooms with private bathroom - all overlooking a beautiful, professionally landscaped, mature and well maintained yard . A peaceful retreat with brick patios, fountains, fenced pool with detached pool house, outdoor BBQ, potting area that is just as perfect for entertaining.3-car garage w/ a work/mud room, laundry room, finished basement perfect for a wine cellar. Sound and security systems, 4 fireplaces, dual-glazed windows, copper piping +++. This is truly a one of a kind home w/ tons of designer finishing touches throughout. Don't miss your chance to own this generous & elegant home on of the best streets in San Marino.
Listed with Irina Netchaev, Keller Williams Realty
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Tue, 19 Mar 2019 10:30:00 +0000: $1,650,000 :: 2585 S Sycamore Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 1,832 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,424 sq ft
Added: 12/31/18, Last Updated: 03/19/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: TR18296575
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/19/2019 by 2%
Status: Active
Move in condition - Lovely one level contemporary 3 bedrooms all suites home with 3 and half baths. Original house built in 1942, Completely remodeled in 2006 . Property situates on a cul-de-sac on a quiet tree lined street. Conveniently located to everything. New driveway in 2006 with new tile roof, AC and forced heating. copper plumbing, new electrical outlet in kitchen in 2018 . Brazilian walnut floors throughout with Italian tile in kitchen. State of the art European design gourmet kitchen is great for entertaining. Spacious master suit overlooks to the lush charming back yard with sparkling pool. Separate walk in shower and jacuzzi tub. The 2nd suite features a private entrance and hand made glass tile walk in shower. The 3rd suite features a study nook and full shower over tub. Professionally landscaped with mature trees. The great Sycamore tree has rare artsy trim and cut. Separate laundry room provides the additional half bath. This is a must see - a designer's gem in one of the finest neighborhood of San Marino . Submit offers and thank you for showing.
Listed with Betty Wang CalDRE: 00894206, Caldwell 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, 16 Mar 2019 23:48:00 +0000: $1,399,000 :: 2395 Roanoke Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,078 sq ft
Lot Size: 14,810 sq ft
Added: 03/16/19, Last Updated: 03/16/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 819001160
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Come see this special and rare opportunity in the heart of San Marino! This home has a great single level floor plan and is waiting for your personal touches. The wonderful location is within walking distance of San Marino High School as well as the shops and cafes on Huntington Dr. Enjoy the large pool, 2 car garage and additional storage space. Will you be the lucky one to make this unique find yours?
Listed with Matthew Helganz CalDRE: 01435250, d
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Fri, 15 Mar 2019 12:03:00 +0000: $2,250,000 :: 1354 Garfield Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,917 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,460 sq ft
Added: 01/09/19, Last Updated: 03/15/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19006322
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/15/2019 by 2%
Status: Active
Located in the highly desirable San Marino, this fabulous Spanish Mediterranean home embodies all of the stunning architectural characteristics of the era. Built in 1926, the home was designed around a large useable corner lot and shares an exclusive cul-de-sac. Private access welcomes you into lush landscaping, a sweeping driveway, and an al fresco bbq courtyard making this the perfect landing place after a long day. With a variety of extensive features and grand formal spaces, private dinner quarters, and a sweeping floor plan showcase true family living. The gourmet kitchen and family great room are an entertainer's delight! Luxurious master suite with a private sitting area and a fabulous juliet balcony. A detached garage in the rear supports a ritzy upper guest suite exclusive for guests or family members. The main home boasts hardwood floors, generous storage, and a cozy fireplace all while maintaining incredible intimacy and warmth. Truly a rare find in San Marino.
Listed with Joshua McIntire CalDRE: 01851216, McIntire Real Estate 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/! - Tue, 12 Mar 2019 14:50:00 +0000: $3,188,000 :: 1865 Rose Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 2,650 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,774 sq ft
Added: 10/15/18, Last Updated: 03/12/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR18245613
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/12/2019 by 3%
Status: Active
Spectacular brand new two-story french country cottage is very rare in the city of San Marino. This meticulously custom built french estate has elaborately unique details including the excellent curb appeal, pavers driveway, brick walkway that passes a unique largest ash tree, and half round top mahogany front door that leads to your dream home. The free-flowing floor plan on the first floor features an inviting entry that leads to the high ceiling dining room and a formal living room with 2-way fireplace shared with the office. It connects to the light-filled formal family room, both have french door that opened to the picturesque backyard. The gourmet kitchen boasts quartz countertop and backsplash, custom built-in appliances, a large center island, with a laundry room next to it. The adjacent family room is spacious with a great view to the garden backyard. Enjoy the luxurious three bedroom suite on the second floor overlooking the San Gabriel mountains. The sumptuous master suite is generously fitted with a view filled large bathroom with the jacuzzi tub and a large walk-in closet. Protected by cedar wood fences and automatic wood gate, a long driveway with ample parking leads you to extraordinary grounds, hosting an exquisite main home along with a detached 2-car garage with attic, lush garden, covered patio, and a gazebo area. Call today, fall in love & make it yours!
Listed with Austin Ma CalDRE: 01869433, Long Dragon Realty Group, 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/! - Sat, 09 Mar 2019 18:06:00 +0000: $4,850,000 :: 2670 Wallingford Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 4,372 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,381 sq ft
Added: 12/07/18, Last Updated: 03/09/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS18287800
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/9/2019 by 2%
Status: Active
Stylish new construction located in the highly desirable N. of Huntington, City of San Marino. Developed by JGR & Associates &designed by PDS Studios, this N. facing one story estate features mountain views & beautiful 12 ft high ceiling. Gorgeous custom 4,372 sqft residence (Sq ft includes 3,420 sqft living space & 952 sqft permitted basement per measure) offers 4 in-suite bedrooms & 4.5 bath on 15,367 sqft lot / stunning garden, enormous pool, spa and creatively designed pool bar. As U enter, U are greeted / luxurious marbled foyer, state of the art modern chandelier & intricate custom wood details throughout the great room. The contemporary gourmet kitchen is equipped / high-end stainless steel appliances & unique modern center island. An expansive family room overlooks the relaxing garden, pool & spa. Built for relaxation, the grand master suite includes master bath / Jacuzzi tub, steam shower & spacious walk-in closet. Many amenities include chef “wok” kitchen, library/office, wine bar & bonus mud area in the laundry room. This exquisite estate also includes downstairs elegant entertainment center that features a custom home theater, wine cellar & a sports bar perfect for family & guest gatherings. This impressive estate is a one-of-a-kind smart home equipped / SONOS sound system/iPad control, Google Nest thermostats, Lutron smart lighting control & others. Also, included is gated driveway, 2 car garage, advanced security system, central vacuum & surveillance cameras.
Listed with X F SHIRLEY H. LAM CalDRE: 01254472, 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/!
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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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