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:
- Fri, 22 Feb 2019 16:40:00 +0000: $4,328,800 :: 555 Winston Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 3,817 sq ft
Lot Size: 14,209 sq ft
Added: 02/20/19, Last Updated: 02/22/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19035980
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Welcome to 555 Winston. Experience this stunning Brand New Spanish Style estate of exceptional quality in the highly sought after and distinguished neighborhood of San Marino. This exquisite home is surrounded by the resplendent beauty of a picturesque tree lined street with master craftsmanship evident in the detailed designs throughout this home. Handset brick lined stones guide the path along the tranquil front yard that is enveloped by lush landscaping. The breathtaking exterior includes an elegant balcony and windows offering a classically nostalgic appearance. Relax in the stunning high ceiling living room that has multiple French doors with access to the breathtaking backyard and patio. Be inspired by the generously proportioned spaces that holds an open floor plan designed with fully appointed kitchen with top of-the-line Wolf appliances along with a separate wok kitchen to aid you in making your culinary dreams become a reality. Cozy up to the two beautifully situated fireplaces with designer stone and marble throughout this home. Head up the stairs and relax in the master bath that includes a rain shower with steam room & a freestanding bathtub. 555 Winston boasts 4 bedrooms and 4 full baths and 2 powder rooms this is beautiful 3,817 sqft home invites you to come experience luxury at its best.
Listed with Chun Mei Chang CalDRE: 01191679, 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/! - Fri, 22 Feb 2019 13:42:00 +0000: $2,850,000 :: 2120 Urmston Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,646 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,264 sq ft
Added: 02/22/19, Last Updated: 02/22/19
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/! - Fri, 22 Feb 2019 07:48:00 +0000: $2,400,000 :: 1665 Del Mar Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
7 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 3,976 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,796 sq ft
Added: 12/18/18, Last Updated: 02/22/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: TR19007338
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 2/22/2019 by 4%
Status: Active
Location! Location! Location! A highly desirable central San Marino neighborhood close by Huntington Library. Walking distance to San Marino High School. This beautiful home has two stories with 3,976 SqFt. of living area including 7 bedrooms & 6 bathrooms (3 bedrooms are suites). Luxurious master suite with sitting area and walk-in closet. Fantastic family room with big glass doors to view the luscious backyard and beautiful pool. The large lot and patio are perfect for BBQ activities and entertainment. Ready to move in or take full advantage of the approved plans for renovation or build a new home.
Listed with Li Wen CalDRE: 01967768, Century 21 Care
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 Feb 2019 14:07:00 +0000: $1,588,888 :: 1885 Sharon Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,824 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,147 sq ft
Added: 02/20/19, Last Updated: 02/20/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 819000756
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
This charming single level home is located on a quiet tree lined street in the San Marino school district. Recently renovated in 2015, this home is in move-in ready condition. The list of upgrades is extensive. All newer systems including HVAC, double paned windows, copper plumbing, electrical, security system, audio system and water heater to name just a few. The contemporary kitchen is an entertainer's delight with quartz countertops, center island, and stainless steel appliances throughout. The open floor plan extends to the dining and family area that easily transitions to the lovely brick patio. The ensuite master bedroom has a large walk-in closet as well as a recently redone bathroom featuring marble tile. Located behind the two-car garage is an office space that has an a/c wall unit. Special Financing Incentives available on this property from SIRVA Mortgage
Listed with Sarah Moore CalDRE: 01166814, 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/free-home-search/! - Tue, 19 Feb 2019 14:11:00 +0000: $2,580,000 :: 2630 Lorain Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,005 sq ft
Lot Size: 25,134 sq ft
Added: 02/19/19, Last Updated: 02/19/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19037380
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Opportunity Knocks! 2 Lots (total 25,133 sq ft) sold together. Frontage 161 sqft. 1 single family house sits on 2 lots. 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. Tremendous future building opportunities await you on these two pieces of land.
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/! - Tue, 19 Feb 2019 10:37:00 +0000: $3,288,000 :: 2900 Sheffield Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,285 sq ft
Lot Size: 17,306 sq ft
Added: 10/05/18, Last Updated: 02/19/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS18245097
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 2/19/2019 by 6%
Status: Active
You cannot find another BRAND NEW SINGLE STORY home located in the prestigious & desirable City of San Marino. This beautiful home sits on a large 17,307 sqft lot, featuring 4 bedrooms, 3.75 baths in the Main House, plus a 485 sqft guest house with kitchen & bathroom. This North facing home is built with the highest quality construction materials, which includes Marvin Windows & Doors, Reclaimed European Oak hardwood flooring & designer light fixtures. Bright & Natural lighting fills the spacious Great Room. The professional kitchen features a built in 48” Sub Zero Refrigerator, a 48”Wolf gas range, a Wolf microwave, a large kitchen island, & furniture quality cabinetry. The kitchen also features a separate Wok Kitchen which is a rare find in a San Marino home. The master bedroom has French Doors opening to the large backyard with a great garden view. The master bathroom comes with a large and beautiful shower design & dual sinks. This beautiful home features a luxurious lifestyle with no expense spared! In addition, the home offers you a full control of ALL facilities from your smart phone, which includes home alarm system with cameras, SONOS sound system, and high tech RING camera door bell. Located in an Award-Winning San Marino School District! Hurry, this home won’t last!
Listed with LIWEI CHEN CalDRE: 01929143, 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/! - Sat, 16 Feb 2019 21:12:00 +0000: $2,880,000 :: 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: 10,654 sq ft
Added: 02/16/19, Last Updated: 02/16/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS19011150
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, KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY/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/! - Fri, 15 Feb 2019 17:14:00 +0000: $2,280,000 :: 597 Los Arboles Lane, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,408 sq ft
Lot Size: 14,270 sq ft
Added: 02/15/19, Last Updated: 02/15/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19035689
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This elegant two-story traditional residence is appointed with exceptional details and state-of-the-art amenities. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, including a luxurious master suite, with steam shower, jacuzzi tub, inviting living room with fireplace, expanded great room for formal dining and family gathering, gourmet kitchen with top of the line Thermador appliances and wine cooler, den or breakfast area, and 2-car attached garage. The park-like grounds highlighted by towering trees, tall hedges, 5 fountains, covered patio, large grassy area and fantastic mural paintings. Update dcopper, piping, elec. system, update dual-zone A/C and ductings, security & intercom system, corwn moldings, custom draperies, hardwood floors, recessed lightings w/dimmers, custom designed tile-works, beautiful landscaping, paving stone driveway and much more.
Listed with Mike Chang CalDRE: 00871671, Coldwell Banker New Century
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, 10 Feb 2019 13:07:00 +0000: $1,450,000 :: 575 La Mirada Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,539 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,553 sq ft
Added: 02/10/19, Last Updated: 02/10/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR19030984
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This Unique cottage style 3 bedroom, 2 bath house, located in a very desirable prestigious Mission District of San Marino, and within the award-winning prestigious San Marino School District, is conveniently near restaurants, shopping, business, and entertainment areas. The home compliments a sizable living room with fireplace, dining room, and kitchen with eat-in kitchenette. The master bedroom is a suite with its own bath. There are hardwood floors throughout, where appropriate. Other features include an inside laundry room and 2-car detached garage. Recent improvements include CedarLite roof and rain gutters, bathrooms upgrade and remodel, tank less water heater, copper plumbing, and seismic anchoring. A real value!
Listed with Yu Tu Milton CalDRE: 01731169, David Milton, BROKER
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 Feb 2019 09:59:00 +0000: $2,280,000 :: 1640 S Euclid Ave, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,673 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,247 sq ft
Added: 02/08/19, Last Updated: 02/09/19
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: OC19030682
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This charming home is nestled in the heart of the mission district bordering South Pasadena. Lot size of 11,249 perfect for family gatherings and entertainment. What once was a 4 bedroom 2 baths home has been fully approved for an addition of another 296 square feet for a total of 3,069 square feet. Interior has been demolished and you can remodel in accordance to your own taste and imagination to a 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths home with one bedrooms down stairs and an oversized master suite with walk-in closet upstairs.
Listed with Qian Meng CalDRE: 01869717, JC Pacific Capital 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/!
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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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