San Marino

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 parkfor 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, 10 Mar 2014 20:54:00 +0000: $1,428,000 :: 635 Old Mill Road, Pasadena CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

3 beds, 1 full, 2 part baths
Home size: 2,145 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,551 sq ft
Added: 03/02/14, Last Updated: 03/10/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214008534
Community: Pasadena Se
Tract: Not Applicable-648 (NA648)
Status: Active

Enjoy California Lifestyle at its best in this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 3 bath Mid-Century Traditional home. Situated on over 15,000 feet of lush foliage and mature plantings, it is nestled below the Langham Hotel in one of Pasadena's most prestigious neighborhoods and within walking distance to the chic Mission Village shopping district of San Marino. Light and bright throughout, windowed walls of glass enhance the stunning open floor plan. The home features a charming formal entry, spacious kitchen with an abundance of storage, an office with laundry and a bath. The formal dining room with its slate floor has windowed walls of glass that continue across the lovely living room with marble fireplace, oak hardwood floor, and crown mouldings.The spacious master suite with a windowed wall of glass overlooks the large, cobblestone patio offering easy access to the hot tub. Additional features are the 2 car attached garage, Central Air and Heat and a Security System.

Listed with Cindy Little (w/ Marcia Kreditor), Dilbeck Real Estate

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!
Mon, 10 Mar 2014 18:01:00 +0000: $8,380,000 :: 985 San Marino Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

6 beds, 5 full, 3 part baths
Home size: 6,467 sq ft
Lot Size: 37,078 sq ft
Added: 03/07/14, Last Updated: 03/10/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: TR14047213
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

One-of-a kind true custom built European style estate in a highly desirable location in the prestigious Huntington Library area of San Marino,Extensive all flat usable lots,almost totally remodeled in year 2000 with elegance and high quality material. Artistically decorated and stunning customized details throughout.6 bedrooms (All suites),library.6 crystal chandeliers.Hard wood and travertine floor.Open living room with crystal chandelier.Chef kitchen with granite counter top,all stainless steel top brand Viking appliances.Built-in refrigerator,separate wok kitchen.Family room over looking resort-like backyard.Spacious family room with built-in cabinets,large fish tank.Large wet bar with wine cellar.Luxurious master suite with vanities steam shower,spa bath tub,two crystal chandeliers and balcony to enjoy the stunning view of the designer landscape garden.Library with custom shelves and crystal chandelier.Entertaining backyard with professional full size lighted tennis court,sparkling pool & spa,koi pond,gazebo,water fall,three water fountains.Pool house with bathroom.Private security gate and grand circle entry.Instant hot water system.Excellent San Marino school district.living area 6467 sqft (5780 main house+369 pool house+318 additional with permit).

Listed with Nancy Liu, ReMax 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!
Mon, 10 Mar 2014 14:28:00 +0000: $1,988,000 :: 2900 Shakespeare Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 3 full baths
Home size: 2,318 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,135 sq ft
Added: 03/10/14, Last Updated: 03/10/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: AR14048751
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

Pride of ownership. Beautiful Ranch Style one level in desirable North San Marino area. Very quiet neighborhood. 4 bedrooms, 2 suites. Living room with fireplace, bay window. Family room, formal dining room. Newer central A/C & heating. Newer copper plumbing throughout. Newer light weight concrete tile roof. Solar panel water heater for pool. Great entertaining backyard with built-in BBQ. Salt water Pool spa. Basement/office area approx. 200 sqft not included in living area sqft. can be use as wine cellar. Gated driveway for more parking. San Marino schools nearby.

Listed with Imy Dulake, 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!
Mon, 10 Mar 2014 10:29:00 +0000: $2,480,000 :: 1935 Robin Rd Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 4 full baths
Home size: 3,164 sq ft
Lot Size: 14,260 sq ft
Added: 02/27/14, Last Updated: 03/10/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214007736
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Conditional

Beautiful Two Story REMODELED Home located on a quiet tree-lined street. Excellent floor plan features four bedrooms with a den could be the 5th bedroom, living room with fireplace,formal dining room,spacious family with view to the rear yard, a very good size breakfast area. Updated kitchen with granite counter top. There is one master suite downstairs. Central air and heat, three car detached garage. Auto gate on driveway. Please show and sell.

Listed with Cordelia Wong, Coldwell Banker

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!
Sun, 09 Mar 2014 08:38:00 +0000: $5,680,000 :: 1580 Chelsea Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

6 beds, 6 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 6,100 sq ft
Lot Size: 23,522 sq ft
Added: 02/03/14, Last Updated: 03/09/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: AR14022944
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

A rare opportunity to own a newly constructed luxury home in beautiful San Marino. Situated on a 23,522 sqft lot, approx. 6,100 sqft home has abundant space for living and entertaining both inside and out. Just a few of the highlights are four bedroom suites upstairs; two bedroom suites, a game room, library/office and guest bathroom downstairs; formal dining room; breakfast room; large kitchen and additional wok kitchen; & backyard pool and spa. This home has been built with attention to detail and style throughout, wall treatments and paint that are custom & unique; marble countertops, custom tiling and glass shower doors in the bathrooms. The stunning marble entryway boasts a sweeping, curved stairway with ornate wrought iron balusters leading to the second story landing. The open & spacious kitchen features marble flooring, countertops and tiled backsplashes. The kitchen opens to the expansive family room with French doors leading to the gorgeous backyard. The expansive master bedroom features a tray ceiling with crown molding & two sets of French doors leading to a spacious balcony with wrought iron balusters, skylights and recessed lighting. A beautiful, modern home in the beautiful, historic town of San Marino. A rare and exceptional opportunity.

Listed with Ash Rizk, 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!
Sat, 08 Mar 2014 22:06:00 +0000: $3,099,000 :: 2870 Wallingford Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 2 full, 4 part baths
Home size: 3,272 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,923 sq ft
Added: 02/24/14, Last Updated: 03/08/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: WS14038050
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

This newly renovated house exudes an old-fashioned exterior charm. The cobblestone path from the driveway leads to the covered front patio. The front hall introduces the sleek red oak floors and recessed lighting found throughout, and it connects to the living room and its angular ceiling. The main rooms are separated by a divider with a built-in fireplace. The kitchen features gleaming granite counters, stainless steel Thermador appliances, and an island for informal dining. The adjacent family room with wine bar also offers a U-Line wine chiller and an additional fireplace.There are four suites with a shared doorway. The master suite offers a walk-in closet and French doors leading to the back. The master bath features a sunken tub and separate shower, his-and-her sinks, and an attached powder room. Outside, the heart-shaped pool with pool bathroom and surrounding deck are perfect for outdoor entertaining. Families both small and large will find their needs and desires handily supplied by this stylish and comfortable house.Majority of property was newly built in 2013, except the center wall with the two fireplaces, partial foundation, the pool, and wall in front of garage.

Listed with KENNY KANG, 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!
Thu, 06 Mar 2014 15:40:00 +0000: $1,380,000 :: 1940 Sycamore Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 1,977 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,791 sq ft
Added: 03/05/14, Last Updated: 03/06/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214008314
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Active

On the market for the first time in almost 3 decades, this well-maintained English cottage is located on a quiet, tree-lined street. A manicured front garden leads to an inviting entry hall featuring wood floors. The gracious living room has crown molding & a handsome brick front fireplace. A bright family room with a wall of windows & French door leads to the private rear yard. Off of the family room is a cozy bedroom. A classic Dutch door connects the family room & the dining room. The efficient kitchen is updated with modern appliances & adjoins a charming breakfast area. Next to the kitchen is the laundry room. The spacious master bedroom is located near the front of the house & features double closets & a bay window. Centrally located off the hall is a large full bath. The other 2 bedrooms are good sized & one of the bedrooms is connected to a 3/4 bath. The highlight of the private backyard is a large custom covered patio a handsome brick fireplace.

Listed with Janice Lee, 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!
Wed, 05 Mar 2014 10:00:00 +0000: $5,850,000 :: 2463 Ridgeway Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 1 full, 4 part baths
Home size: 4,333 sq ft
Lot Size: 29,557 sq ft
Added: 03/05/14, Last Updated: 03/05/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214006207
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Active

This private estate is situated on 30,000 sq ft. lot on sought-after Ridgeway Road N.of Huntington Dr. The meticulously maintained property features a flowing floor plan that orients towards a resort style pool area and professionally landscaped grnds. On the upper level an entry & living & dining room with fireplace, family room with fireplace, kitchen w/ large center island & breakfast bar, subzero refrigerator, double ovens, desk area, separate laundry room, & two powder rooms. The master suite features a sitting area, generous master bath w/ soaking tub, glass enclosed shower, marble tile flooring, granite counters, adjacent private zen garden. Two secondary bedrooms share a spacious bath. The kitchen, family room & master bedroom offer sliding door access to a rear balcony running the length of the house & overlooking the rear grounds and twinkle light views. At the pool level, a game room with bar & fireplace, guest bedroom & a huge bathroom offer poolside convenience and fun.

Listed with Mei-Mei Liu, Sotheby's International 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!
Tue, 04 Mar 2014 11:30:00 +0000: $2,150,000 :: 921 Afton Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 3,053 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,543 sq ft
Added: 02/26/14, Last Updated: 03/04/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214007568
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Active

A spectacular 2 story Mediterranean home on a 11,543SF lot in a very desirable San Marino location w/in close proximity to Valentine & Huntington middle schools and the San Marino Crowell library. This property has old world architectural detailing w/modern day updating. With 4 bed, 2 bath, powder room, living room w/fireplace flanked by custom mahogany storage seats, beamed ceilings, & glass French doors opening to rear patio, gardens, and pool. Adjacent to entry is a spacious den w/many windows beamed ceiling & recessed lighting. This could be used as a dining room. The kitchen/family room is a great multipurpose living area w/all appliances, abundant storage, center island breakfast area w/additional sink, built in desk & wet bar. In addition there is a corner fireplace, tile flooring all opening to rear gardens ad pool. An office at rear of entry hall. Front & rear gardens were professionally designed & landscaped. The front yard is highlighted by a specimen magnolia tree.

Listed with Linda Chang (w/ Brent Chang), Coldwell Banker

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!
Tue, 18 Feb 2014 17:41:00 +0000: $3,980,000 :: 1270 Mesa Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

3 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 3,904 sq ft
Lot Size: 24,000 sq ft
Added: 01/01/14, Last Updated: 02/18/14
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 214000045
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 2/15/2014 by 6%
Status: Active

Located in the most prestigious neighborhood, in the hills above Lacy Park in San Marino, this stunning estate was designed by famed architect Roaland Coate for entertaining and indoor and outdoor living. Home features 3 bedroom suite + den + family room + formal dining room, 3.5.5 bathrooms. Master BR suite features a large dressing room and closets. Large kitchen features a center island, lots of cabinet space, viking stove. 3 fireplaces & 3-car garage. Brand new natural Oak hardwood floors throughout, new dual CAC & heat system, new window draperies, new installed alarm system with cameras & screen monitors, new light fixtures, ceiling fans, dual paned window/doors, water softener and freshly paint interior and exterior. To complete this amazing estate is the beautifully landscaped yard offers majestic Pine trees, stone paving drive way, motor court, large new grass lawn, brick paving BBQ patio area and a large pool/spa area, etc. This is the ultimate oasis for fine living

Listed with Jean Ni (w/ William Ni), Coldwell Banker

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!

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PLACES TO VISIT IN SAN MARINO:

Huntington Library – Famous for its beautiful Botanical Gardens, British and French Art Collection and has one of the largest collections of rare books and manuscripts outside of the Library of Congress.

Lacy Park – Known best for its Rose Garden and the annual 4th of July Parade. In my opinion, it is one of the prettiest parks in the San Gabriel Valley.

The Old Mill (Molino Viejo) – Oldest standing commercial building Southern California; Used to be the mill for the San Gabriel Mission.

San Marino Public Library – Opened in January of 2008, this library is an absolute pleasure to visit.