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:
- Tue, 18 Sep 2018 18:05:00 +0000: $4,500,000 :: 2170 Lombardy Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 4,347 sq ft
Lot Size: 26,377 sq ft
Added: 09/18/18, Last Updated: 09/18/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 818004640
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
A very pretty one story traditional with architectural detailing, an excellent floorplan and situated on over 1/2 acre in a prime San Marino location. This home is close proximity to the Huntington Library, Cal Tech and schools.This home features: 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, living room with bay windows and fireplace, large formal dining room with brass chandelier and spacious great room/family room with walk-in bar, fireplace and glass doors opening to rear terraces, gardens and pool. The inviting kitchen with cathedral beamed ceiling, custom cabinetry and built-in desk is conveniently located next to great room. There is a charming library den overlooking front gardens that could be used as a 6th bedroom. The beautifully landscaped grounds include: planted gardens, front flagstone walkway, large grassy front and rear lawns, mature trees for privacy and pool with separate spa all add to the ambiance of this special San Marino home.Additional Features:* Three-car garage* Separate guest bedroom and bath* Large rear patio with fountain* Motor court off garage
Listed with Brent Chang CalDRE:01822562, COMPASS
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, 18 Sep 2018 17:35:00 +0000: $1,688,000 :: 884 Old Mill Road, Pasadena CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,771 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,197 sq ft
Added: 09/18/18, Last Updated: 09/18/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 818004636
Community: 648 - Pasadena (SE)
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Luxury with a casual elegance, this timeless gated 1926 English Cottage home sits in the most prestigious Oak Knoll Neighborhood. It offers incredible serenity, delightfully intimate interior and intricate landscaping. The inviting formal foyer welcomes you home. Main floor boasts bright and spacious living room with a brick fireplace. This well-designed living room has a view showcasing the beautiful front garden. Stunning formal dining room and breakfast room. Two comfortable bedrooms with 3/4 bathroom. Exceptional kitchen offers quartz counter top, custom-built solid wood cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, recessed lighting and designer kitchen tile flooring. A separate laundry where you can exit to the back and the two car garage. An elegant staircase with wrought iron banister leads you to the second floor where it has three bedrooms and one full bathroom. Enjoy the lovely office and a rooftop deck. There are hardwood floors throughout and a California basement. The Langham Huntington, an iconic Landmark Hotel is two blocks away. Other upgrades: new 220 electrical panel, copper plumbing, new electrical, dual zone central air & heat, sewer relined, exterior drainage and more.
Listed with Shanshan Lin CalDRE:01900299, Pacific Union International
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, 17 Sep 2018 11:49:00 +0000: $1,850,000 :: 1410 Granada Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,940 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,193 sq ft
Added: 08/07/18, Last Updated: 09/17/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR18191127
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/17/2018 by 3%
Status: Active
North of Huntington Drive, Award-winning San Marino school district. Welcome to this amazing 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom Mid-century modern home, located in a prestigious neighborhood. Huge family room that can be enclosed by both-side doors to be used as the 5th bedroom / guest room. Classy tall double door entry, spacious living room with fireplace adjoins to formal dining area. Gleaming floors, kitchen with original wooden cabinets opens to the spacious family room with a high open beam ceiling and fireplace. Airy and large master bedroom with glass sliding doors opens to the fenced back yard; very large, bright master bathroom with double closets, double sinks, sunken bathtub and separate shower. Extra-large, front entry 2-car garage and covered patio extends outside of the family room area with master bedroom access to the back yard.
Listed with Jun Xu CalDRE:01940105, 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/! - Mon, 17 Sep 2018 11:43:00 +0000: $2,198,000 :: 2730 Ardmore Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,488 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,596 sq ft
Added: 09/17/18, Last Updated: 09/17/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 818004603
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Other
Status: Active
Classic & elegant, this 2-story Mediterranean style home is located in the very desirable Mission District of San Marino. Grand entry with authentic wrought iron banister. Spacious LR with beautiful FP, high curved ceiling & archways, opens to sitting area and Family Room. Large Formal DR with gorgeous front window lets in lots of light. Kitchen, breakfast rm, laundry remodeled 2008. Light, bright, tasteful & timeless design. Custom glass front cabs, built-in high end appliances, marble countertops, farmhouse sink, breakfast bar, built-in desk & tons of storage! 2nd sink & custom cabinets in laundry rm. Great Room/Family Room is adjacent to kitchen & opens to brick drive with 2-car detached garage, patio & private, lush rear yard. A remodeled, full bath completes the first floor. Upstairs is open & light. Generous sized Master opens to covered balcony. Walk-in closet, en-suite dressing area with built-ins & remodeled bath with double vanity. There are 2 more ample bedrooms, a 3rd remodeled full bath & a 40' long sunroom..use as nursery, office, kid space or just a place to relax. French windows, HW floors, authentic architectural detail & aesthetic quality combined with timeless updates make this an impressive home anyone would want to call their own
Listed with Jaclyn Erikson CalDRE:01070090, 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/! - Sun, 16 Sep 2018 05:27:00 +0000: $2,500,000 :: 1625 Old Mill Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,549 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,495 sq ft
Added: 07/16/18, Last Updated: 09/16/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS18171241
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Great opportunity to remodel this home into a dream home. Large lot over 15,000 square feet with a spacious, one level home over 2,500 sqft. This home is located in central San Marino and features a circular driveway and gated pool.
Listed with HENRY LOH CalDRE:01205165, MANDARIN REALTY COMPANY
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, 14 Sep 2018 15:11:00 +0000: $1,699,000 :: 792 Sierra Madre Boulevard, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,214 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,041 sq ft
Added: 09/14/18, Last Updated: 09/14/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 818004571
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Situated on a gentle knoll is this beautiful updated gem, on the market for the first time in 20 years! The beautiful landscape and colored blooms welcome one to the entry. The living room, family room and dining room are smartly defined by elegant plantation shutters that can be opened to form a flowing great room. Adjacent to the dining room is the newly remodeled dream kitchen with white maple cabinets, Carrera quartz polished countertop, stone floorings, stainless steel appliances, recessed lights and a breakfast area for casual dining. There is an updated 3/4 bathroom centrally located and next to a large bedroom. In addition, there are 2 bedroom suites. The comfortable master suite is highlighted by a dressing area and a tranquil, tastefully remodeled master full bath with marble counter top & floor, newer TOTO toilet, and a deep Jacuzzi tub. The 2nd suite has a 3/4 bath, a wall of built-in cabinets, shelves and window seats with a great view of the side yard. Other highlights include gorgeous refinished wood floor throughout, updated electrical system, copper plumbing & double pane windows. This picture-perfect home exudes pride of ownership and is waiting for the lucky new owner to enjoy for decades to come!
Listed with Janice Lee CalDRE:00874257, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
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 Sep 2018 14:56:00 +0000: $1,697,000 :: 1650 Las Flores Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,912 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,752 sq ft
Added: 09/12/18, Last Updated: 09/13/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 818004524
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Other
Status: Active
Perfectly located 3 large bedroom, 2 bath family home in San Marino's popular Mission District. Marble entry opens to a spacious living room with crown molding, fireplace framed by twin built in cabinetry and hardwood floors. Open entry from living room into adjacent dining room, which opens to family room. French doors lead to flat, fully enclosed back yard with room for parties and projects. Detached two car garage opens to large hardscape driveway leading to gated street access. Copper plumbing, attic fan, fruit trees (loquat, seedless tangerines and lemon). Situated in a neighborhood of families whose kids attend San Marino Unified School District's award-winning schools and nearby private schools. Children safely learn to ride bikes in the U-shaped neighborhood where dogs enjoy walking their owners to the nearby gym and unique Mission street restaurants, salons and retail shops, yet convenient to surrounding cities and 110, 210, 134, 710 and 10 freeways.
Listed with Robert Graham CalDRE:01231958, Graham Realty
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Thu, 13 Sep 2018 13:11:00 +0000: $4,290,000 :: 1705 Oak Grove Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 4,947 sq ft
Lot Size: 25,243 sq ft
Added: 01/18/18, Last Updated: 09/13/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR18012930
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/13/2018 by 10%
Status: Active
Reduce the price ! looking for guick sale. Great location in San Marino. one of the best school district in California. this Spanish style property was designed by the noted architects Roland Coate and Denise Tolim. Huge lots over half an Acre. beautiful backyard with many fruit trees, brick pathway, private basketball court, grassy area and more. this beautiful house features 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths (2 master bedroom suites), stone counter, heavy-duty stove/oven, wine cellar, game room and generous storage, circular driveway with auto driveway gate, greenhouse, salt water pool, Bomb shelter etc. this house was repainted recently. bring your valued clients to see this noble building.
Listed with Panjiang Chen CalDRE:01899925, Kingston Realty
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:40:00 +0000: $4,780,000 :: 1165 Rosalind Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,442 sq ft
Lot Size: 23,805 sq ft
Added: 05/08/18, Last Updated: 09/12/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: OC18084741
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last increased on 6/6/2018 by 10%
Status: Active
RARE FIND! Location, Location, Location! In highly coveted residential San Marino neighborhood close by to Huntington Library and Lacy Park. Large lot over half an acre of land this house can be converted into over 6,000 sqft of luxury living! Very private lot with gated front driveway.
Listed with William Ting CalDRE:02022053, Century 21 Award
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 Sep 2018 09:59:00 +0000: $1,950,000 :: 1868 Palmas Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,224 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,990 sq ft
Added: 09/12/18, Last Updated: 09/12/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 818004525
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
This elegant Tudor Style home is situated on one of San Marino's beautiful tree-lined streets with extensive renovations and an expansive open floor plan. You are welcomed into this home with a charming foyer and beautifully refinished hardwood floors and other wooden details throughout the house; leading you to the ample size Living Room with high ceilings, leaded windows, and fireplace. A formal Dining Room with beautiful floor to ceiling windows is adjacent to an exquisite remodeled kitchen with granite counter tops, high-end appliances, and cozy breakfast nook. The bright and airy Family Room lends to our modern indoor/outdoor living with a wall of windows and French doors to your Pergola patio dining area. A large Master Bedroom with vaulted wooden ceiling, stained glass window, ample size walk-in closet and master Bathroom. Two additional Bedrooms and bathrooms are privately located on the other side of the home. Additional exceptional features include: updated electric system with 200-amp panel, remodeled pool, hot tub with waterfall and pool equipment, new redwood pergola and cabinets, fruit trees, close to schools, 2 car detached garage with 240 volt plug for your electric car, and much more.
Listed with Norma Mardelli CalDRE:01477249, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Company
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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