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, 25 May 2018 05:21:00 +0000: $3,380,000 :: 1435 Bellwood Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,077 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,147 sq ft
Added: 05/24/18, Last Updated: 05/25/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR18123681
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
This brand new traditional style home is located in the prestigious & desirable city of San Marino and uses the highest quality of construction and material selections. Features include: Central air/heat, hand-scraped hardwood floors, crown molding, security alarm surveillance system, 2 skylights in hallways, sensor lighting and organizers in all closets, custom linen closet, all baths are equipped with GRAFF brand shower head, rainfall shower and faucets, top of the line TOTO NEOREST toilets. Formal entry into lovely formal living room with stone fireplace. Formal dining area, custom gourmet kitchen with large central island, Custom cabinets and Carrera marble countertops, EUROPA double bowl with KW system faucets, WOLF 6 burner gas stove/griddle. WOLF wall hood, microwave and steam oven and ASKO dishwasher. Family room offers access to rear patio perfect for AL Fresco dining. Downstairs offer private laundry room, bonus room. Ideal location! Close to San Marino nights school. Carver Elementary school & shopping! Minutes to Santa Anita Mall, race track, restaurants and hospital with easy freeway access!
Listed with Treeline Realty & Investment
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, 24 May 2018 23:23:00 +0000: $2,680,000 :: 2764 Carlaris Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
5 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,076 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,602 sq ft
Added: 11/01/17, Last Updated: 05/24/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR17248887
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Wonderful Spanish with architectural integrity located in the Mission District on one of San Marino's most beautiful streets. The formal entry features hardwood floors and a grand staircase. The living room has a fireplace, handsome beamed ceilings and wide planked pegged wood floors. An oversized dining room has French doors to the front patio. The kitchen has been designed with a flair of sophistication, including a large center island and counters with elegant Calcutta Gold marble from Italy, custom solid wood cabinets, beveled glass cabinetry with lighting, hand milled crown molding and solid wood floors. his home has five bedrooms and three baths,breakfast room, basement with storage, and a wonderful private yard. Central air/heat has been installed
Listed with 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/! - Wed, 23 May 2018 15:33:00 +0000: $3,099,999 :: 2165 Homet Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,538 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,872 sq ft
Added: 05/23/18, Last Updated: 05/23/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS18093408
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Masterful English Tudor with timeless architectural and charming character. Extremely desirable location in the heart of San Marino, close to Huntington Library. This exquisite home boasts 3 large bedrooms, 3 full baths upstairs, 1 bath downs, beautiful wood paneled library,the adjacent office, step down living room w/ sconces, stone fireplace, and French doors to take in ll the natural light, formal dining room with charming chandelier, spectacular great room with distressed hardwood floors for even more character, professional grade Viking appliances, marble counter tops, gorgeous granite island that is perfect for family dining or as a focus for casual entertaining. The adjacent office can be easily converted into an additional bedrooms. French doors open to the grassy rear yard. Remodel year at 2007. The exterior paints, lanes and gardens were renovated in 2017. New BBQ equipment, sinks, wine coolers, and gazebo were added to the rear garden.
Listed with REAL ESTATES UNLIMITED
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, 23 May 2018 11:20:00 +0000: $4,380,000 :: 1725 Sharon Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,527 sq ft
Lot Size: 16,740 sq ft
Added: 05/23/18, Last Updated: 05/23/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR18120076
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Located in a tranquil tree lined street of San Marino, this Brand New home is designed by renowned designer Philip Chan of PDS Studio Inc. and crafted by Sunny Construction & Development. This beautiful home sits on a large 16,700 sf lot-- the biggest on Sharon Place. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 4.75 baths this lovely home exemplifies luxury living but yet promotes a cozy lifestyle for all. As you enter the home you will be greeted with high ceilings in the living room and dining room, decorated with gorgeous herringbone marble floors and designer light fixtures. The gourmet kitchen w/ separate wok kitchen opens up to the family room with sliding doors that frames the view to the backyard which has many mature trees and a relaxing swimming pool. The master suite is conveniently located on the 1st floor and features high ceilings, luxurious bath with dual sinks, soaking tub, and shower with steam room. Across the bathroom is a walk in closet. The basement provides a nice entertainment area with wine rack storage-- or can be used as a gym. Two other secondary bedroom suits are on the first floor and an additional spacious bedroom suite is upstairs. Each bathroom has its unique tile work and design and each light fixture is hand selected by the team at Fiona Lau Interiors. The home features SONOS surround sound with iPad control as well as security camera system, alarm & central vacuum. This wonderful new home is rare gem in San Marino, truly not to be missed!
Listed with Advanta Properties, 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/! - Tue, 22 May 2018 05:21:00 +0000: $2,790,000 :: 1072 Granada Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,282 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,764 sq ft
Added: 05/04/18, Last Updated: 05/22/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS18105518
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Beautiful two story Spanish home. Situated on a 13,746 SQ.FT. lot, w/in close proximity to Valentine & Huntington middle schools & the Crowell San Marino Library. This home has old world architectural detailing w/modern day updating. Features: 4 bedrooms, 3 baths plus powder room, large entry with coat closet, display niches & tile flooring, spectacular living room w/wood beamed ceilings, fireplace, built in display shelving, hardwood flooring, & glass paneled door overlooking porte-cochere. A formal dining room with beautiful original wrought iron chandelier, large arched window overlooks front gardens. Situated next to a separate breakfast room, the spacious kitchen has all appliances, abundant storage areas, leaded glass garden window & tile flooring. The family room features a lower'' sitting/entertainment area w/fireplace & stained glass paned windows. The upper'' level has glass paned doors opening/overlooking rear patio, pool & gardens. There's a walk in wet bar & a wall of storage
Listed with 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/! - Sun, 20 May 2018 07:10:00 +0000: $2,500,000 :: 1770 S Los Robles Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 2,618 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,779 sq ft
Added: 05/18/18, Last Updated: 05/20/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR18117657
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
REBUILT from foundation up in 2016!!!! This beautiful home is located in Mission District, City of San Marino, with walking distance to restaurants and shops within Mission area/ San Marino School District. This contemporary new built home in modern classic that has 2,618 sqft with 2 living spaces + covered back patio, and a balcony on the 2nd floor. There are total of 3-car garage and 1 of the garages is attached to the house. Open floor plan features 4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths. Formal living room with vaulted ceilings and marble fireplace. Patio and huge backyard is accessed thru cozy family room and a modern gourmet kitchen with custom cabinets, marble counter top, brand new stainless steel appliances. 1 of the bedroom suite is located on the first floor with access to huge backyard. 2nd floor features a master bedroom with 2 closets, master bath with shower and Jacuzzi tub, + 2 bedroom suites and one of them is with a balcony. It is not easy to find a new built home with this price range in the City of San Marino, plus San Marino School District is rated as one of the best school in California. This is the perfect home for you to raise your family!
Listed with Treelane Realty Group TC COMM
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, 19 May 2018 19:40:00 +0000: $2,280,000 :: 1545 Pasqualito Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,994 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,325 sq ft
Added: 03/06/18, Last Updated: 05/19/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS18053524
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/19/2018 by 3%
Status: Active
Big lot!!! Big lot!!! Almost 16,000 sqft lot .Recently Remodeling include:Flooring /Repainting/New cabinet. Facing to the south. Walking distance to private park and mission district. San Marino single-family house with a big front yard, backyard as well as swimming pool. The big lot with huge potential for homeowner or developer
Listed with 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/! - Sat, 19 May 2018 14:53:00 +0000: $2,198,000 :: 2734 Carlaris Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,847 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,867 sq ft
Added: 05/18/18, Last Updated: 05/19/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 818002371
Community: 655 - San Marino
Tract: Other
Status: Active
This stately two-story Mediterranean is located on one of the most beautiful streets in San Marino's coveted Mission District, within close proximity to shopping and dining. Entering through the turreted foyer, you will see a graceful soaring stairway with wrought iron banister. The impressive living room features a high beamed ceiling, hardwood floors and inviting fireplace. A spacious formal dining room is the perfect place for elegant dinners with family and friends. The kitchen was remodeled in 2014 with granite counter tops and is adjacent to a large breakfast area and family room. There is a downstairs bedroom with remodeled bath. Upstairs is the spacious light-filled master bedroom with en-suite remodeled bath, walk-in closet and covered balcony. There are two more large bedrooms and a beautifully tiled original bathroom. The very serene backyard is completely enclosed and has mature plantings and a salt water pool and spa.
Listed with Sotheby's International Realty, Inc.
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Sat, 19 May 2018 03:46:00 +0000: $1,888,000 :: 2320 Coniston Place, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,260 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,942 sq ft
Added: 05/17/18, Last Updated: 05/19/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS18117315
Community: 655 - San Marino
Status: Active
Remodeled and beautiful home situated on the North of Huntington Drive, walking distance to the award winning San Marino High School. This 3 bedrooms and 3 baths home offers an excellent floor plan with formal living room and dining room, a spacious family room with new sliding doors overlooking the backyard with beautiful garden and sparkling pool, a master suite with walk-in closet, a brand new gourmet kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, and new flooring throughout the house. Freshly painted inside. Don't miss this rare opportunity.
Listed with 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, 18 May 2018 14:19:00 +0000: $2,680,000 :: 1665 Del Mar Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale
7 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 4,429 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,794 sq ft
Added: 04/27/18, Last Updated: 05/18/18
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS18098409
Community: 655 - San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/18/2018 by 7%
Status: Active
City of San Marino approved plans for a traditional 4,429 SF two story home featuring 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, a master suite with master bath, library, game room, living room, family room, gourmet kitchen with secondary wok kitchen, wet bar, upstairs loft, covered porch, pool, and 3 car garage. Current home features 7 bedrooms, of 3 are suites, and 6 baths. Very spacious master suite with retreat and walk in closet, high ceilings, crown moldings and beautiful details throughout. Permits are ready to be pulled for this renovation.
Listed with KENT REALTY & INVESTMENT
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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