The Best Neighborhoods in San Mateo County for Families

San Mateo County is one of the most sought-after places to raise a family in the Bay Area. Its blend of excellent public schools, safe neighborhoods, walkable downtowns, and access to the outdoors makes it ideal for parents looking to put down roots.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or relocating from across the country, here are five family-friendly cities in San Mateo County, each with its own unique appeal.

San Carlos: Small-Town Charm with Big Family Appeal

San Carlos is beloved for its tight-knit feel, tree-lined streets, and walkable downtown that feels like a scene from a movie. It’s a city where neighbors say hello, schools are strong, and weekend outings are easy to come by.

Why families love San Carlos:

Top-rated schools, including Arundel Elementary and Tierra Linda Middle
Burton Park, one of the best in the county, with sports courts, skate park, shaded play structures, and seasonal music events
The San Carlos Youth Center, offering structured programs for all ages
Hiller Aviation Museum, which is hands-on, educational, and perfect for younger kids
A community calendar packed with events like Hometown Days, the Art & Wine Faire, and Movies in the Park

Neighborhoods like White Oaks and Howard Park offer charming homes, wide sidewalks, and close proximity to downtown, perfect for walking to dinner or the weekend farmers market.

Redwood City: Urban Energy Meets Family-Friendly Comfort

Redwood City offers a blend of diversity, downtown energy, and suburban comfort that appeals to families looking for space and options. The city has undergone significant revitalization but maintains its welcoming, down-to-earth vibe.

Why families choose Redwood City:

Beautiful neighborhoods like Mount Carmel, Edgewood Park, and Woodside Plaza, each with their own flavor
Red Morton Park, a 31-acre hub with playgrounds, tennis courts, large fields, and the new Magical Bridge Playground, designed for inclusive play
The San Mateo County History Museum, housed in a historic courthouse, with interactive exhibits for kids
Courthouse Square, hosting free concerts, movie nights, and seasonal festivals
Close proximity to Huddart Park and Edgewood Park & Preserve for weekend hiking and outdoor play

Redwood City is one of the sunniest cities in the Bay Area and has the family infrastructure to match. From story times at the library to youth sports leagues, there’s always something happening.

San Mateo: Big City Access with a Community Feel

San Mateo is one of the most well-rounded cities on the Peninsula, large enough to offer everything, yet still neighborhood-focused. Whether you want excellent schools, walkability, or weekend fun, this city delivers.

Why families love living here:

Baywood-Aragon and Laurelwood are among the most popular neighborhoods, offering quiet streets and strong public schools
Central Park, complete with a mini train, Japanese Tea Garden, playground, and the ever-popular CuriOdyssey science and wildlife museum
Easy access to Laurelwood Park and Sugarloaf Hill, which provide hiking without ever leaving city limits
A newly remodeled Hillsdale Shopping Center, featuring kid-friendly restaurants, an escape room, and a state-of-the-art movie theater
Well-connected transit, including Caltrain and access to both Highway 92 and 101

San Mateo is ideal for families who want to be in the heart of it all while still enjoying quiet evenings and strong neighborhood communities.

Foster City: Open Space, Safe Streets, and Endless Activities

Foster City is purpose-built for family life. With over 24 parks, miles of trails, and a tranquil lagoon system running through the city, it offers some of the most accessible outdoor living on the Peninsula.

Why Foster City is a family favorite:

Exceptionally safe and quiet streets with wide sidewalks, low traffic, and excellent lighting
Leo J. Ryan Park, a waterfront destination with picnic areas, playgrounds, a lagoon for paddleboarding and boating, and community events like Summer Days and the Fourth of July Festival
Sea Cloud Park, Catamaran Park, Boothbay Park, and Edgewater Park, each offering something different, from soccer fields to shaded toddler zones
Access to the Bay Trail, perfect for biking, jogging, or weekend walks with a stroller
Top-performing public schools, including Brewer Island Elementary and Bowditch Middle
Recreation Center and Teen Center, offering classes, camps, and sports leagues for all ages
Family-friendly restaurants, splash pad areas, and even a small amphitheater for live music

If you’re looking for a place where kids can roam, parents can unwind by the water, and weekends feel like staycations, Foster City delivers and then some.

Millbrae: Peaceful Hills and Community-Focused Living

Millbrae combines hillside views, excellent schools, and a small-town vibe that appeals to families seeking peace without disconnecting from the rest of the Bay.

Why families settle in Millbrae:

Great public schools, including Meadows Elementary and Taylor Middle School
Central Park, with fields, picnic areas, and sports courts for casual play
Junipero Serra Park, a hidden hilltop gem with shaded playgrounds, hiking trails, and Bay views
Millbrae Recreation Center, offering art, dance, and seasonal programming for kids and teens
Convenient access to BART, Caltrain, and SFO, making it ideal for commuting parents or families who love to travel

Millbrae may be quieter than its neighbors, but that’s part of the appeal, and families who settle here often stay for decades.

Final Thoughts: Your Family Deserves the Right Fit

San Mateo County is filled with amazing places to raise a family, but the best neighborhood for you depends on your lifestyle, your commute, your school needs, and your weekend plans.

Whether you’re looking for water views, park access, or a welcoming community to call home, I’d love to help you find it.

📩 vincent@vmartrealty.com
📞 (650) 787-6939

Let’s find the right place for your family to not only live, but to thrive.