San Marino: An Affluent Suburb of Southern California
Nestled in the sprawling San Rafael hills between Pasadena and San Gabriel, the Californian city of San Marino is characterized by lavish properties surrounded by exquisite gardens. Occupying less than four square miles, the area is uniquely residential. Population was reported to be 13,147 in 2010 and climate is temperate with temperatures ranging from an average of 40 degrees during winter months to an average of 90 degrees in the summer.
Ranked by Forbes Magazine as the 63rd most expensive location to live in the United States in 2010, the average price of a typical family home in the area is around the $2 million mark.
History and Current Demographics
The original location of a village occupied by native Tongva Indians, the area of San Marino later played an important role in the early San Gabriel Roman Catholic Mission. The area that is now occupied by the landmark Huntington Library together with several ranchos were incorporated as the city of San Marino in 1913.
The 2010 United States Census showed that the population of San Marino was a little over 13,000 people. The racial makeup of the area was detailed as 53.5% Asian and 41.3% White, with very small percentages of Hispanic and Latino, Pacific Islander and African-American races making up the rest of the population. Of 4,330 households, approximately 42% had children under the age of 18. The average age of residents is 45 years and there is a slightly higher female to male ratio.
Main Attractions in San Marino
The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens on Oxford Road is one of the most popular attractions in San Marino. Known collectively as ‘The Huntington’, this 207 acre landmark complex draws residents and tourists alike. The 18th century art collection housed here is said to be one of the most complete collections outside of London.
The Edwin Hubble House on Woodstock Road is a National Historic Landmark. It was the home of the American astronomer and “pioneer of distant stars,” Edwin Powell Hubble, between 1925 and 1953. The San Marino residence remained in the Hubble family until 1973.
Lacy Park is a vast 30-acre expanse of lush green space in the middle of San Marino. Originally known as Wilson Lake, it is considered one of the city’s best kept secrets. The park boasts six championship size tennis courts, walking loops, memorial gardens and a 60-year-old Rose Arbor. Also, when in Lacy Park, don’t overlook The Thurnher House which is located at the front entry of the park. This historic structure was built in 1929 and now serves as the headquarters for San Marino Historical Society.
The Crowell Public Library is a state-of-the-art building which opened in 2008. The new library provides books, magazines, DVD’s, electronic database, reference assistance and programs for all ages.
The Old Mill is the oldest commercial building in Southern California. Built in 1816, it served as a grist mill for Mission San Gabriel.
The Michael White Adobe is a small structure located on the campus of San Marino High School next to the athletic field, built in 1845 . Named for the owner of the original land where it was built, many say that San Marino’s roots in early California history began here.
Additional Information
– San Marino is divided into zones depending on lot size. Lots start at 4,500 square feet and reach over 30,000 square feet. The city’s strict views on historic preservation restrict larger developments.
– The San Marino government applies restrictions to commercial operations within the city. Commercial vehicles must be granted permits to enter and work within the city.
– The city is regularly featured in motion pictures and television shows. Famous examples include Father of the Bride, Mr & Mrs Smith, Starsky & Hutch and The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.
– According to the Academic Performance Index for 2011, the San Marino Unified School District is California’s best performing school district. The San Marino School District includes Carver and Valentine Elementary Schools, Huntington Middle School and San Marino High School.
– Private schools in San Marino include Southwestern Academy, a college preparatory school, and Saints Felicitas and Perpetua Grammar School, a Catholic elementary school serving students from kindergarten through 8th grade.
– The Crowell Public Library on Huntington Drive opened in 2008 and plays host to a range of activities and classes for residents of all ages and abilities.
See 2010 Home SOLD information for San Marino with List vs Sold Price, Date Sold and Price per Square Foot.
This community consists only of single family residences and there are no apartment buildings, condominiums or townhouses in the city.
This Pasadena adjacent has beautiful tree-lined streets and estates sitting on large lots, with many averaging over 30,000 sq. ft. Most of the San Marino homes were built between 1920 and 1950.
San Marino is regarded as having one of the best school districts in the Greater Los Angeles Area. In fact, San Marino School District was ranked as #1 district in California based on its API (Academic Performance Index) in 2008. All of its public schools are honored as a California Distinguished School and a United States National Blue Ribbon School.
The city includes the estate of Henry E. Huntington, who made a fortune in the development of Southern California and opened the library and art collections in his large neo-Palladian mansion to the public in 1919, best known as the Huntington Library. At the time, San Marino was some twelve miles (19 km) from Los Angeles.
Huntington Drive and Sierra Madre Boulevard serve as the main thoroughfares, leading to Pasadena, Alhambra and San Gabriel.
In the middle of San Marino, not too far from Huntington Library, lies Lacy Park. It is a huge 30-acre park filled with unique and hard to find trees and beautiful lush foliage. Not too many people know that back in 1875 it was a lake – Wilson Lake. The land was bought and converted to a park in 1925.
Families in San Marino have enjoyed Lacy park for years, and it remains one of San Marino’s best kept secrets. The park includes six championship tennis courts and pro shop, administered by the San Marino Tennis Foundation. At the west entrance of the park is the Rose Arbor, which is of special significance for the people of San Marino. It is 60 years old and has long been a source of beauty and tranquility to many residents.
The park recently built a memorial to General George S. Patton (a native of San Marino) and also a large memorial to Armed Forces along with a statue of a sad soldier. The memorial includes the names of all military personnel from San Marino that where killed in various wars.
San Marino Schools
Wikipedia says this about San Marino Schools: There are four public schools. They are Valentine Elementary School, Carver Elementary School, Huntington Middle School and San Marino High School. Stoneman Elementary School (named for the Governor who lived in San Marino) is no longer used for instruction by the School District. Southwestern Academy, a private college preparatory school, is also located in San Marino.
There is also a private Roman Catholic grammar school, SS. Felicitas and Perpetua. The city took the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to the Supreme Court to block the opening of this school.
The two elementary schools offer instruction for grades K-5, the middle school for grades 6-8 and the high school for grades 9-12.
In 2005 and 2006, the San Marino Unified School District ranked first among all 328 California unified school districts based on the California Academic Performance Index. San Marino High School is considered one of the best-performing public schools on Standardized Achievement Tests (as of 2004) in Southern California. It was also named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2006. Most of San Marino’s schools’ funds come from private donors and organizations.[citation needed].
In November 2007, U.S. News and World Report put San Marino High School in number 82 on its list of best high schools in the nation, giving SMHS the Gold Medal honor.
Asian-Americans are 70% of San Marino school enrollment as of December 2005. Strong support for education from the Asian community has bolstered the excellence of the school district.
The University of Southern California owns a house in San Marino which is used as the residence of the President of the University. The residence and grounds are large enough to allow events to be held there.
*Data gathered from San Marino Unified School District, California Department of Education Analysis, Measurement & Accountability Reporting Division and GreatSchools.org
San Marino Housing
On October 6, 2008, Forbes.com rated San Marino as the 47th most expensive zip codes (91108) to live in with the 2007 median home price being $1,552,500.
Even in the economic downturn, home prices have maintained their value and San Marino home sellers are still experiencing a higher demand than the surrounding cities.
San Marino Real Estate Listings by Price. These home listings are updated every few hours and feed directly from the Multiple Listing Service as real estate agents update and upload new homes for sale.
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San Marino Real Estate:
- Sat, 23 May 2020 15:31:00 +0000: $3,610,000 :: 1045 Roanoke Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 4,490 sq ft
Lot Size: 18,283 sq ft
Added: 07/03/19, Last Updated: 05/23/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS19150716
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Welcome to this charming and classic colonial revival residence in a desirable San Marino location with a huge lot. Exterior walls were freshly painted. Artificial turf and sprinkler pipes were installed in January 2019. 1st floor features a formal living room, kitchen with center island, dining room, powder room, a full bathroom added in 2016. 2nd floor features 4 bedrooms with 3 baths, balcony overlooking rear gardens and pool. 3rd floor features newer wood floor with lots of storage space. Property located near schools, restaurants, stores, banks, etc. Property is staged with furniture. Motivated Seller.
Listed with JIARU MENG CalDRE: 01927752, 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/! - Sat, 23 May 2020 05:45:00 +0000: $2,680,000 :: 2112 S El Molino Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,863 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,434 sq ft
Added: 05/23/20, Last Updated: 05/23/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820001850
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Located in the popular Mission District, this classic Dutch Colonial home was meticulously renovated in recent years and lovingly maintained by its current owners. The welcoming entrance hall leads to an elegant living room featuring a handsome fireplace, bay windows, & French doors to the covered patio. The formal dining room has large bay windows allowing for light and lovely garden views. The gorgeous remodeled kitchen features Carrera marble countertops, professional-grade appliances, custom cabinetry, walk-in pantry, built-in desk, and a large island accented by 2 pendant light fixtures. Adjoining is the family room with a casual dining area featuring bay window built-in seats and French doors to an expansive covered dining porch overlooking verdant back yard. Upstairs are 4 spacious bedrooms and 2 completely remodeled marble baths, including a luxurious master suite with 2 walk-in closets, dual sink vanity, a tub, marble shower, and access to a private balcony overlooking beautifully manicured rear garden. There is 214 sf playroom attached to the garage. Major features include copper plumbing, updated electrical system, dual-zone AC systems, oak hardwood floors, solid wood cabinetry, tank-less water heater, and automatic gated concrete driveway.
Listed with Sabrina Wu CalDRE: 00900733, 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/! - Thu, 21 May 2020 07:17:00 +0000: $2,380,000 :: 2650 Devonport Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,609 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,528 sq ft
Added: 05/21/20, Last Updated: 05/21/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820001811
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Located on a picturesque street in the coveted San Marino neighborhood, this mid-century traditional home has been thoughtfully updated with state-of-the-art amenities and beautiful finishes throughout. An inviting entrance hall leads to the elegant living room with a gorgeous fireplace. The impressive formal dining room has two sets of French doors that open to a trellised brick patio overlooking the lush backyard. A completely remodeled chef-inspired kitchen is the heart of the home, featuring marble countertops, custom cabinetry, Wolf professional-grade appliances, Sub-zero refrigerator, and a center island with prep sink. Adjoining is a cozy family room with beautiful reclaimed hardwood flooring. The master suite includes a mirrored closet, a wardrobe, marble counter dual-sink vanity, jet tub, steam shower, and a bidet toilet. A 2nd bedroom suite has an en-suite remodeled bath. The two additional bedrooms, one with built-in desks, currently used as an office, share a beautifully remodeled bath. Major features include copper plumbing, updated electrical system, central AC with Nest controls, owned solar panels, 2 tank-less water heaters, automatic sprinklers system, security alarm system, Ring doorbell, and automatic gated concrete driveway.
Listed with Sabrina Wu CalDRE: 00900733, 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/! - Wed, 20 May 2020 21:52:00 +0000: $1,695,000 :: 2710 Tura Lane, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,982 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,024 sq ft
Added: 05/20/20, Last Updated: 05/20/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820001806
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Tasteful and stylish remodeled home with San Marino Schools, This beautiful home is shield from the street by the tall and thick hedges garden makes the interior a peaceful oasis. Home features hardwood floors, double pane windows, full copper plumbing throughout, many systems upgrades, a convenience floor plan and ample custom cabinetry. Gourmet kitchen with large island is a nature gathering space and connects to family room and access to the private backyard. Master suite with view of rear garden, has plenty of closet space and a 3/4 bath. The two additional roomy bedrooms share an attractive bath with a freestanding tub. Private and serene backyard is a nature extension of the house and includes a build-in BBQ, countertop with sink, heated & filtered pool/spa, fire pit and two concrete patio spaces with a auto-retractable awning and a shady cabana. Other amenities are included French doors, 2 fireplaces, wainscotting, Crown-moldings, recessed lightings, CAC, alarm system, tankless water heater, build-in cabinet inside of garage, block walls and Cul-de-Sac location. There is a multi-used room with French doors between Family room and garage used as Sun room which open to backyard. This beautiful home shows well from beginning to end.
Listed with Jean Ni CalDRE: 01002467, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
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 May 2020 00:40:00 +0000: $2,538,000 :: 2325 Roanoke Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,618 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,504 sq ft
Added: 05/18/20, Last Updated: 05/19/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820001771
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
This charming character home is located in a wonderful family neighborhood on a very large lot. It features a gracious floor plan with four bedrooms and three bathrooms, including a master suite with fireplace and two closets, gracious living room with fireplace, updated kitchen with granite counter tops, and built-in refrigerator with two freezer drawers, breakfast area, family room with fireplace, two car detached garage, newer roof, large patio and garden, over-sized pool and spa, central heat and air, security system, and automatic sprinklers in the front and rear.
Listed with Mary Haltom CalDRE: 00603672, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
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 May 2020 18:02:00 +0000: $2,999,000 :: 1705 Durklyn Court, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,309 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,220 sq ft
Added: 05/15/20, Last Updated: 05/15/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20093032
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This Beautifully Remodeled Ranch style home located in the heart of San Marino, walking distance to Crowell Library, Middle School, Valentine Elementary School, Huntington Drive shopping and dinning. Quiet cul-de-sac with mature trees and landscaping, features 4 large bedrooms with two suites, 3 remodeled bathrooms and a den as office now, state of The art gourmet kitchen with new cabinets, granite counter tops, extra large center island, breakfast area leading to the beautiful rear garden, Fountain, fruit trees, formal dining area at the family room, master suite with Extra large Walk-in closet, attached driveway with circular driveway, new central AC/Heating system.
Listed with Jean Huang CalDRE: 01053756, E 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/free-home-search/! - Tue, 12 May 2020 18:01:00 +0000: $3,998,000 :: 2160 Adair Street, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,889 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,455 sq ft
Added: 05/12/20, Last Updated: 05/12/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820001678
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Stunning Newer Rare Construction modern Mediterranean Revival with luxury finishes throughout looks brand new. This gorgeous home features stunning architectural details, including high ceilings, beautiful floors, custom built-ins, Spanish tile accents, and 4 fountains. Located in a gorgeous neighborhood of San Marino near the Crowell Public Library and within short proximity to schools in the top-rated San Marino Unified School District, this turn-key home is ready for immediate enjoyment. The open, light-filled floor plan is well designed for entertainment and everyday living. The elegant living room opens to a beautiful private courtyard. Facing the grassy rear yard and spacious patio, are the open chef's kitchen and spacious family room with coffered ceiling and breakfast area with built-in custom curved seating and storage. The formal dining room showcases a hand-stenciled ceiling and bay window. There are 5 Bedrooms and 4.5 Baths, each elegantly designed with the highest quality finishes; 2 of the bedrooms feature private balconies. The property includes a 3-car garage, a state-of-the-art security system, dual pane windows, tankless water heaters, and new custom garage cabinets and is wired for the Sonos sound system. Luxury abounds.
Listed with Sarah Rogers CalDRE: 01201812, 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, 12 May 2020 16:54:00 +0000: $2,688,000 :: 2815 Shakespeare Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,884 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,814 sq ft
Added: 05/12/20, Last Updated: 05/12/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820001680
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Spectacular Mid-Century Traditional in N. San Marino.Completely re-designed, single level home with modern conveniences while preserving architectural charm, provides a seamless sense of space. Situated on a tree-lined street in the highly desirable North of Huntington location near San Marino HS, this extensively remodeled home with new addition features light filled rooms & an open floor plan.The formal living room is spacious with views to rear yard & warm fireplace.The formal dining room features original wainscot & built-ins,opens to newly remodeled kitchen with newer appliances,quartzite countertops, & open to a spacious family room with 2nd fireplace & sliding glass doors with tempered glass to rear yard with sparkling pool & entertainment paradise.This home offers a newly built master suite with luxurious full bath with double sinks & spacious closets with built-ins, doors leading out to the rear yard. The other 2 bedrooms are generous in size & share a fully remodeled bathroom. Behind the kitchen, is a breakfast room &remodeled bath, which can be enclosed to be a 4th bedroom. Adding to the ambiance of this incredible property are professionally landscaped grounds with outdoor kitchen with built-in BBQ, newer salt-water pool & spacious lawn.
Listed with Nina Kirkendall CalDRE: 01245547, Keller Williams Realty
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Mon, 11 May 2020 21:46:00 +0000: $3,790,000 :: 2836 Cumberland Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,770 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,026 sq ft
Added: 05/11/20, Last Updated: 05/11/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR20089633
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Welcome this new modern House which was re-built in 2018 over 90%. Originally built in 1939. The final building permit was signed on 01/10/2019 by city of San Marino. This property was located in heart of San Marino. With close proximity to award-winning schools and famous Crowell library, convenient area at north of Huntington Drive. This exquisitely updated 4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home features hardwood floors throughout, gourmet open kitchen with granite counters and Wolf, Subzero appliances, separate wok kitchen. Huge master suits on both 1st and 2nd floor. Gorgeous master bath featuring with rain shower, Jacuzzi and steam system. Generous sized living room with modern fireplace and woven wall. Sliding glass doors to rear yard and deck, perfect size back yard, perfect for celebrations and relaxing.
Listed with Yaming Gui CalDRE: 02052024, 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/! - Thu, 07 May 2020 13:28:00 +0000: $3,510,000 :: 1680 Oak Grove Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 4,159 sq ft
Lot Size: 32,605 sq ft
Added: 05/07/20, Last Updated: 05/07/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 820001613
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable - 1007242
Status: Active
Situated on a 32,599 square foot lot in the prestigious estate area of San Marino, bordering the Huntington Library. The circular driveway leads to this beautiful med-century home, designed/build by Norwood & De Longe in 1953. Wonderful floor plan w/discerning clean lines and spacious public rooms. Home features 4 bedroom, 3.5 baths, Den, Living room,Family room ,formal dining room & breakfast nook. Expansive foyer leads to the tastefully appointed LR w/Fpl, build-ins bookshelves, and the sophisticated DR w/skylights. The spacious FR w/Fpl & a wall of sliding glass doors to lg deck patio, spa & garden vistas. Den with build-ins desk & a wall of sliding glass doors to back garden. Kitchen opens to DR w/ light wood cabinets, build-in refrigerator, granite & tile counters & skylights. Breakfast nook has a small patio w/a fountain. Lower level is a large Game room about 600 sqft, w/fireplace, Large windows & door access to the 2-car attached garage. Large master bedroom w/wall of sliding glass doors open to a large patio deck with garden views. Lg. Master bath w/marble tiled tub/shower & walk-in closet. Huge park like garden fully landscaped, offering privacy and tranquility, Pool/Spa, gazebo, garden path, lighting, large motor court and circular driveway.
Listed with Jean Ni CalDRE: 01002467, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
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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