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, 15 Jun 2019 15:10:00 +0000: $1,380,000 :: 1775 S SAN GABRIEL, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,551 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,667 sq ft
Added: 11/26/18, Last Updated: 06/15/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 18411178
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 6/15/2019 by 3%
Status: Active
Gorgeous Move in Ready home in San Marino. Property has new Roof, New Energy Efficient Windows, New flooring thru out all the house. Electrical has been updated as well as plumbing. Kitchen has Quartz counter top with new Applicances. Master Bathroom has showroom Tub and Shower Enclosure. Recess lighting thru out entire home makes this home modern but with traditonal Architecture. Two Care garage and spacious back yard.This home is ready for the buyers that want to move in without having to repair after they purchase their home. Move in Ready.
Listed with Eduardo Canas CalDRE: 01156538, Real Innovate 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/! - Thu, 13 Jun 2019 18:21:00 +0000: $1,988,000 :: 2900 Monterey Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,813 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,034 sq ft
Added: 04/03/19, Last Updated: 06/13/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19074433
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 6/13/2019 by 5%
Status: Active
This charming & updated Mediterranean home is situated in the heart of San Marino’s Mission District. This turnkey home features 4 spacious bedrooms, including 2 suites (one on each level), and 3 remodeled bathrooms w/ a total of 2,813 sq ft of living space. The 1st level features a large formal living room w/ beamed ceilings, fireplace, and adjacent office nook, formal dining room, breakfast room, kitchen, interior laundry room, and a bedroom suite w/ a full bath. The 2nd level features 3 beds, including a large master suite w/ walk-in closet, and 2 baths. There is a large upstairs balcony/deck overlooking the lovely backyard. The 11,000+ sq ft lot features an oversized 600 sq ft. 2-car garage w/ ample storage, a tranquil backyard w/ large grass area, mature trees & landscaping, and a lovely shaded patio area ideal for dining/entertaining. Some of the many upgrades include dual zone HVAC system, new Spanish tile roof, refinished hardwood floors, copper plumbing (partial), upgraded electrical (panel & wiring), tankless water heater, bolted foundation, water softener, and drip irrigation system. Located just blocks from the Langham Hotel and Mission Street’s shopping & dining, this property is in an ideal location. Also nearby are Valentine Elementary, Huntington Middle School, Lacy Park, Crowell Library & the Huntington Library. This home provides the ideal combination of a convenient location and an updated, move-in ready home.
Listed with Dean Griffith CalDRE: 01452542, 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/! - Thu, 13 Jun 2019 15:37:00 +0000: $1,488,000 :: 1630 Staats Place, Pasadena CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,188 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,712 sq ft
Added: 05/17/19, Last Updated: 06/13/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 819002300
Community: 648 - Pasadena (SE)
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
The price of this listing was last reduced on 6/13/2019 by 3%
Status: Active
Set in the gorgeous Old Mill neighborhood, adjacent to San Marino's quaint Mission District, this immaculate contemporary home features 3 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms in a bright, streamlined floorplan. With the updated kitchen, bar area, family and dining rooms opening out onto the backyard patio and pool area, this home provides the perfect space for entertaining with seamless indoor-outdoor living. Beautiful vaulted ceilings and a stone fireplace grace the living room, leading to three upstairs bedrooms, including a master suite with two spacious closets, double sinks and separate shower and jacuzzi tub. This home has wonderful storage, spacious, light-filled rooms, and a finished garage with loft storage and built-in cabinetry. What makes this home incredibly special is truly the location, within blocks of Lacy Park, Mission Street shops and cafes, and The Langham Huntington Hotel, offering a lifestyle surrounded by beauty, tranquility, and a vibrant community.
Listed with Michael Maloney CalDRE: 01216091, 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/! - Thu, 13 Jun 2019 13:18:00 +0000: $2,680,000 :: 1660 West Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,588 sq ft
Lot Size: 17,825 sq ft
Added: 06/12/19, Last Updated: 06/13/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS19139175
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Gorgeous traditional home located on a tree-lined street within walking distance to San Marino Schools. Sepectacular Masster Suite open Kitchen . Hardwood Flooring. Newer remodeled state-of-the-art granite kitchen with center island, sub-zero refrigerator and Thermador appliances. Delightful family room with fireplace, sliding glass door and bay window overlooking to the beautiful front and back yard. Dining room has french doors open to back yard pool area . A guest house Guest unit has mini-bar & 1/2 bath with its own access. Beautiful garden with verity plants and fruit trees surround the house to make you feel relaxed and happy .
Listed with SUNNY WONG CalDRE: 01877949, COLDWELL BANKER GEORGE 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/! - Thu, 13 Jun 2019 12:55:00 +0000: $4,650,000 :: 2670 Wallingford Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 4,372 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,368 sq ft
Added: 06/12/19, Last Updated: 06/13/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19138972
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Spectacular North Facing Brand New,Contemporary ranch home situated in the highly desirable North of Huntington neighborhoods, featuring an open floor plan of 12 feet high ceiling.Gorgeous customs residence of 4,372 sqft offers 4 en suite bedrooms & 4.5 baths on a 15,367 sqft big lot landscaped by beautiful mature trees with a creatively designed Pool Bar and spa. As you step in, you are greeted by luxurious marbled foyer, state of art modern chandelier and decorative custom wood details throughout the Great Room.The modern gourmet kitchen is equipped Thermador stainless steel appliances and an unique center island providing breakfast area.An expansive family room overlooks the stunning garden,sparkling pool bar and spa. Built for relaxation,the grand master suite includes master bath of steam shower,soaking tub,walk-in closet and extensive use of marble.Many amenities include chef "wok' kitchen with Fridge,library/office,wine bar and bonus mud area in the laundry room.Descending downstairs to a basement with an elegant entertainment center featuring a dreamed home theater,wine cellar and sports bar perfectly for family and guest gatherings.This impressive estate is a one-of-a-kind smart home equipped with SONOS sound system/ipad control, Google Nest thermostats, Lutron smart lighting control.2 car garage,advanced security system,central vacuum and surveillance cameras. Well Developed by JGR & Asso and architecture designed by PDS Studios .Come experience luxury at its best.
Listed with Rebecca Lau CalDRE: 01347392, 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/! - Thu, 13 Jun 2019 05:44:00 +0000: $2,200,000 :: 1354 Garfield Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,917 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,461 sq ft
Added: 01/09/19, Last Updated: 06/13/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19006322
Community: 655 - San Marino
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/! - Wed, 12 Jun 2019 14:19:00 +0000: $2,280,000 :: 2630 Lorain Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,005 sq ft
Lot Size: 25,135 sq ft
Added: 06/12/19, Last Updated: 06/12/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19138689
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Huge Lot (total 25,133 sq ft). Frontage 161 sqft. Current home has 2 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms. The office can be used as 3rd bedroom. Living room with beautiful hardwood floor and fire place. Huge family room overlooks the picturesque backyard. Beautiful pool.
Listed with Angel Lau CalDRE: 01337201, Coldwell Banker Dynasty T.C.
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, 12 Jun 2019 09:21:00 +0000: $4,198,880 :: 2225 Montecito Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,514 sq ft
Lot Size: 19,123 sq ft
Added: 05/16/19, Last Updated: 06/12/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: TR19112061
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 6/12/2019 by 8%
Status: Active
A hidden gem in the Poet's Quarter of San Marino conveniently located near The Huntington Library Botanical Gardens and walking distance to the highest ranked San Marino High school designed by noted architects William & Smith. The home's thoughtful design presents itself throughout with a lush garden, waterfalls and Koi stream welcoming quests at the entry. An expansive interior floor plan with high angled ceiling,wood beams and large stained glass windows allowing ample natural lighting to illuminate the spacious open floor plan. This house has been extensively & meticulously updated with top of line materials, craftsmanship & design in 2012-2013. The four-bedroom estate(included three suites) features a spacious master suite and generous Jr. suite that has the flexibility to convert into another bedroom, adding a 5th room to the home. Each room provides direct access to the rear garden. The State-of-the-art kitchen features custom made cabinetry and finest line appliances. The massive rear yard is surrounded by trees, fruit orchard, new heated rim, pool & spa, fire glass pits and wood deck. This is a one of kind contemporary estate with park like yard, perfect for gracious entertaining and quiet resort living!
Listed with Jill Cheng CalDRE: 01070957, Encore Realty & Financial
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, 12 Jun 2019 05:32:00 +0000: $1,568,000 :: 2225 S Los Robles Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,782 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,000 sq ft
Added: 05/05/19, Last Updated: 06/12/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS19100296
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 6/12/2019 by 5%
Status: Active
***Price to Sell*** Beautiful home located in the a very desirable prestigious Mission District of San Marino and award-winning San Marino School district. Where you can grow & add your taste. This updated Ranch style home features open floor plan:Spacious living room, Huge dining room, Gorgeous Kitchen with custom cabinetry, granite countertop, center island, stainless steal appliances and wine cellars. Recess lighting, hardwood floor throughout. Master bedroom w/walking in closet and own bath at one side has more privacy. 2 good size bedrooms share a full bath located in other side. The enclosed Sun-room in the back, where you can entertain your friend and family, enjoy the sunshine and beautiful backyard. The park like backyard featured flower and trees, cascading fountain, inground spa, just steps up to the elevated yard for gorgeous view of tall pine trees and Mountain View for fun and relaxation. Tankless water heater with filtration system. Twin security alarm controls for convenience. 2-car garage attached to the house. stone-lined long driveway in front and additional street parking in addition. Location is convenient to shopping, restaurants, schools , city main road and highway 10, 710 and 210. ---House in turn key condition. Don't miss it!---
Listed with JEAN LI CalDRE: 01952107, 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/! - Sun, 09 Jun 2019 14:01:00 +0000: $8,560,000 :: 1267 Shenandoah Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
8 beds, 8 baths
Home size: 7,462 sq ft
Lot Size: 30,318 sq ft
Added: 06/09/19, Last Updated: 06/09/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19120967
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Exquisite updated colonial-style manor in the prestigious estate area of San Marino, just above Lacy Park. Secluded and private park-like lot includes gated circular driveway, three-car garage, pool and lighted tennis court. This home features a great floor plan, an abundance of natural light, granite tile and natural hardwood flooring throughout. An inviting entry hall with high ceiling foyer with grand chandelier welcomes all who enter. Grand Living room features a handsome fireplace, large Family Room with multiple French doors leading to the beautiful backyard. Remodeled in 2010, the spacious gourmet Kitchen equipped with professional-grade appliances. An in-law bedroom is located off the kitchen. The formal Dining Room opens to the patio with brick planters and built-in BBQ area. The grand Master Suite and three additional bedrooms are on the second floor, each with balconies. Master Suite with Onyx Marble Fireplace, luxurious Spa-like bath including artisan-crafted imported marble bath and shower, walk-in closet, a study room, and a library. A Recreation Room and a Guest Room on the first level have own separate entrances from backyard. The backyard features a sparkling pool, lighted championship tennis court and lush landscaping, which all create a secluded haven for outdoor entertaining. Modern updates including Russound multizone system, windows, three A/C systems, etc. The property is within short distance to Huntington Library and San Marino Schools.
Listed with Xiao Zhang CalDRE: 01910041, 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/!
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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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