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:
- Mon, 14 Oct 2019 12:33:00 +0000: $3,980,000 :: 1560 Old Mill Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,637 sq ft
Lot Size: 29,312 sq ft
Added: 08/14/19, Last Updated: 10/14/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS19194277
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 10/14/2019 by 7%
Status: Active
Great potential to build a luxury residence in the most desired northern part of San Marino, which is close to schools, City Library, Lacy Park, Worldly renowned Huntington Library and Botanical Garden. A hard-to-get close to 10,000 square feet approved by the City of San Marino. Interested buyer to build your dream home, its your one of its kind opportunity. Don't miss it! Details of the approved plan is ready for you to preview. for the new house, it has 6 suites, 8 baths, 4-car garage, classic entry, grand foyer, light filled library, open floor plan, formal dining with direct access to the covered patio, spacious family room with sliding doors, extending to a big covered patio that brings the outside in as additional living space. Gourmet kitchen, breakfast nook overlooking the beautiful backyard, separate wok room and butler's pantry, first floor junior master suite with huge walk-in closet. open Balcony, home theater and wine cellar, etc....
Listed with HE GEORGE GAO CalDRE: 01422025, RE/MAX ELITE 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, 10 Oct 2019 15:18:00 +0000: $3,088,888 :: 2285 Huntley Circle, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,677 sq ft
Lot Size: 17,120 sq ft
Added: 10/08/19, Last Updated: 10/10/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PF19240246
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Best $/sqft value for this south-facing one-story spacious home on a large lot over 17,000 sqft. Nestled on a highly desirable private tree-lined cul-de-sac in North Huntington. Close to prestigious blue ribbon San Marino High School, Huntington Library, and downtown San Marino. As you enter, greeted by open living room with floor to ceiling stone fireplace. Gourmet professional kitchen featuring large island, breakfast nook, Thermador rangetop, Dacor double oven, custom built-in wine rack, and large walk-in pantry. Formal dining room with elegant built-in cabinets. Handsome home office with stately built-in bookshelf. Large family room overlooking private pool, patio, and garden. Entertain guests or pool party for the kids with the broad courtyard and outdoor wet bar. Secluded and expansive master suite featuring his & her walk-in closet. DO NOT MISS THE UPDATED CONTEMPORARY MASTER BATH with designer tub and double sink vanity. Recessed lighting through out. 2-car detached garage.
Listed with Jason Hsiao CalDRE: 02106848, Berkshire Hathaway Home Serv.
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, 10 Oct 2019 12:49:00 +0000: $2,088,888 :: 1354 Garfield Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,556 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,461 sq ft
Added: 07/01/19, Last Updated: 10/10/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19155062
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 10/10/2019 by 1%
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. This is an additional 1 bedroom 1 bathroom space with approximately three hundred and sixty square feet. 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/! - Thu, 10 Oct 2019 11:34:00 +0000: $1,480,000 :: 1985 Del Mar Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,891 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,410 sq ft
Added: 10/10/19, Last Updated: 10/10/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19238257
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
A true San Marino classic! This Cape Cod inspired single level home is loaded with traditional charm and has been lovingly maintained and cared for by the same family for 70 years. The well designed floor plan features a formal entry, elegant living room, separate dining room and breakfast nook in the remodeled kitchen. The spacious bedrooms enjoy lovely yard views with two of the bedrooms boasting charming dressing areas. An added bonus is the California basement that allows for extra storage. Enjoy California outdoor living in the ample backyard that affords spaces for patio, BBQ, and entertaining areas. Additional features include: separate laundry room, upgraded copper plumbing and electrical, refinished hardwood floors, refurbished windows, and a newer cement driveway. The two-car garage has been finished off with drywall. San Marino schools. Buyer to verify.
Listed with Vicky Hansen CalDRE: 00696228, 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/! - Tue, 08 Oct 2019 22:46:00 +0000: $1,888,000 :: 2265 Huntley Circle, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,063 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,246 sq ft
Added: 10/08/19, Last Updated: 10/08/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 819004693
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
On the market for the first time in over 50 years. This East facing fixer and restoration opportunity is located in a desirable San Marino neighborhood. Built in 1950, this one story traditional home awaits your designer touches. The home is situated on top of a knoll on over one-third of an acre lot and offers great potential for a buyer willing to restore it.The spacious floor plan features an entry, living room & fireplace, formal dining room, 4 bedrooms and 3 baths (including 2 dressing rooms). There is a large family room with fireplace & wet bar overlooking the patio and pool. The eat in galley kitchen has an adjoining butler's pantry and separate laundry room which completes the floor plan. There is an attached 2 car garage with covered side yard and or dog run leading to the back door.
Listed with Kerri Ross Terrill CalDRE: 01201705, Ross 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/! - Mon, 07 Oct 2019 20:22:00 +0000: $2,450,000 :: 2120 Urmston Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,646 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,265 sq ft
Added: 02/22/19, Last Updated: 10/07/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS19040763
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This sophisticated single level mid-century home is located at the end of a cul-de-sac on a premier street. Close to the Mission District and situated on a gentle knoll that is particularly breezy and fresh during the summer months. It features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. The high ceiling living and family room, leading out to a fully opened sliding door towards the patio, the sparkling pool and the backyard garden, create a rather luscious Californian life style. Total renovation was done in 2015 with high quality material, to ensure the upkeep of the original architectural style. The gorgeous gourmet kitchen built with high-end appliances and custom cabinetry. A full bar is complete with a wine cooler & sink connecting the formal dining room and outdoor patio. The laundry room can be accessed between kitchen and bedroom suite. The master suite overlooks the serene backyard and is complete with a bathroom equipped with a wet and dry sauna shower. Finished basement, bigger than a racquetball court, can hold your extensive wine collection or can be used as a hobby/game room. This gem is the ideal home for the discerning family who enjoys the utmost comfort and entertainment.
Listed with XIAOXI SHANG CalDRE: 01386754, PG 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, 07 Oct 2019 11:23:00 +0000: $2,048,000 :: 2930 Kinghurst Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,245 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,586 sq ft
Added: 08/23/19, Last Updated: 10/07/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19202174
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 10/7/2019 by 2%
Status: Active
This home is a must see. Located in the exclusive Huntington Library Gardens neighborhood, This one story single family has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Large lot size. Beautiful well maintained single story home is located in the the highly sought-after San Marino, close to San Marino High School and Carver Elementary School. Formal entry greets you to the bright living room with fireplace, spacious family room and formal dining room. The kitchen has bright and colorful tile and decor, newer stove and dishwasher and garbage disposal and a cozy breakfast area with built-in storage. The laundry room is separate and also leads to the rear yard. The master suite with its own bathroom and walking closet. Walking distance to Trader Joe's and Howie"s Market, less than 10 minutes drive to H Mart, Westfield Shopping Mall and fine restaurants, bus lines, Post Office, Banks and etc. Enjoy living in this charming comfortable home.
Listed with Shirley Tang CalDRE: 01845722, Re/Max 888
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, 04 Oct 2019 08:03:00 +0000: $2,599,999 :: 1805 S Euclid Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,660 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,002 sq ft
Added: 09/06/19, Last Updated: 10/04/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: TR19212570
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last increased on 9/24/2019 by 8%
Status: Active
Just Reduced! AMAZING BRAND NEW CUSTOM HOME in San Marino. Marvelously Upgraded Two Story Home Located in the highly desirable Mission District. Excellent Floor Plan with High Ceiling Features: 4 Bedroom 4 Bath plus a private Balcony and a California Room (Main level with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom). Detached 2 Car Garage with (2 Charging Stations). All New Sierra Pacific Custom Wood Windows and Bi-Fold French Doors opens to a backyard California Room. New 2 Units AC/Heating System. New Copper Plumbing. A Large Contemporary Great Room with FIREPLACE with LED Lights (Automatic Electronic Ignition Pilot Light with Remote) Foyer with Dining and Living Room. Chef’s Kitchen with Breakfast Bar Area. Custom Cabinets. Walk in Pantry. Professional grade Viking Appliances, Wine fridge, Farmhouse Sink. Totally Upgraded Curbless Bathroom except Masters. Interior Upgraded Features, Wood Beam Ceiling. LED Recessed Lights, Ceiling Fans in each room. Skylight Shines the Custom Extra Wide Staircase with Glass Railing. Laundry Upstairs. Luxurious Master Suite with a Private Balcony Access and Spacious Walk-in Closet. Bi-Folding French Doors leading out to a Beautiful Large Backyard to Relax or Great for Entertainment with Custom Deck Ceiling. Room for BBQ area and Water features. This is it !San Marino Unified School district is #1 in the State by (“CAASPP”) score released by State of California Publicly. **TOP SAN MARINO SCHOOL DISTRICT**
Listed with Michael Chang CalDRE: 01913277, Keller Williams Signature
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, 02 Oct 2019 15:26:00 +0000: $2,600,000 :: 1241 Encino Drive, Pasadena CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,848 sq ft
Lot Size: 21,127 sq ft
Added: 07/31/19, Last Updated: 10/02/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19181841
Community: 648 - Pasadena (SE)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 10/2/2019 by 10%
Status: Active
HUGE PRICE REDUCTION!! MOTIVATED SELLER!! One of the most unique property in City Of Pasadena in most desirable area designed by Architect John L. Pugsley.
Listed with Tony Krmzyan CalDRE: 00843116, Re/Max Premier Prop 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/! - Tue, 01 Oct 2019 22:52:00 +0000: $2,630,000 :: 1285 S San Gabriel Boulevard, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,821 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,655 sq ft
Added: 10/01/19, Last Updated: 10/01/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS19232857
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Brand new beautiful home situated on the South of Huntington Drive, walking distance to the award winning San Marino High School, starbucks coffee and Trader Joe's . This 3 bedrooms and 3,5 baths plus 2 detached garages single level home offers an excellent open floor plan with a spacious family room open to dinning room with french doors overlooking the backyard, a master suite with walk-in closet and bathroom , a gourmet kitchen with Sub-zero stainless steel appliances, wood flooring throughout the house. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a brand new house in San Marino.
Listed with MING SONG CalDRE: 01866980, 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/!
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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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