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If you’re thinking about moving to San Mateo County, you’re not alone. From waterfront views to walkable downtowns and family-friendly communities, locals know they’ve found something special here. But if you’re wondering “Which town in San Mateo County is right for me?” — we’ve got you covered. Here’s a closer look at seven of the most desirable towns. Not just based on stats, but on what locals genuinely love about living there.
Foster City: For Waterfront Living and Recreation
Foster City is known for its tranquil lagoons, wide sidewalks, and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for people who love to stay active, whether that means biking along the Bay Trail, paddling in the canals, or walking to Leo J. Ryan Park, which also hosts concerts and festivals. It is one of the most masterfully planned communities in the Bay Area, and it shows. With wide streets, manicured parks, excellent schools, and a system of scenic lagoons, it feels like a retreat in the middle of the Peninsula.
The city is filled with young families, active retirees, and professionals who want safety, order, and recreation. Dozens of parks line the waterfront. There are bike trails, sports fields, community centers, and play structures that make everyday outdoor time part of your lifestyle.
Leo J. Ryan Memorial Park is a recreational city park, located in Foster City, California. Perfect for family picnics, strolls along the boardwalk, and community events.
What locals love:
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Quiet, residential streets with little traffic and high walkability
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Top-performing schools like Bowditch Middle and Brewer Island Elementary
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Miles of Bay Trail access for running, biking, or stroller walks
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Massive parks including Sea Cloud and Boothbay with well-maintained sports and play zones
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A strong community culture from Fourth of July festivals to outdoor movie nights
Local Favorites:
• Waterfront Pizza – a casual staple with unbeatable lagoon views
• Hillbarn Theatre – a hidden gem for live performances
• Boothbay Dog Park – a favorite for four-legged locals
Popular with: Families, remote professionals, and water-lovers
Types of homes: Mid-century and newer single-family homes, waterfront townhomes, and condos
San Carlos: The City of Good Living
San Carlos offers a small-town feel with a vibrant downtown full of cafes, local shops, and wine bars. Laurel Street is the beating heart of the city, with year-round farmers markets and events like the Art & Wine Faire.
Highlands Park brings the community together with soccer fields, tennis courts, and open green space nestled in San Carlos’ scenic hillside.
What locals love:
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Tree-lined streets and historic charm in neighborhoods like White Oaks
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Highly ranked schools across every level
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A downtown you can walk to, day or night
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A pace that’s calm without being sleepy
Local Favorites:
• Town – modern American eats, beloved by locals
• Drake’s Barrel House – craft beer and casual hangouts
• Burton Park – expansive park with sports courts, picnic areas, a skate park and concerts
Popular with: Young families and tech workers commuting to Palo Alto or SF
Types of homes: Craftsman and traditional homes on tree-lined streets, updated ranch-style properties
Millbrae: Transit-Friendly with a Suburban Feel
Millbrae is perfectly positioned between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, with a major BART and Caltrain hub. It’s convenient for commuters but also offers good schools and laid-back suburban charm. Many of the homes are spacious mid-century builds with Bay views. Families appreciate the safety and school quality, while professionals love being near BART and Caltrain. On weekends, residents enjoy Serra Park, Central Park, and occasional events like the Millbrae Art and Wine Festival.
What locals love:
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Hillside homes with view potential in neighborhoods like Mills Estates
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Fast access to downtown SF, Palo Alto, and the airport
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Small, walkable downtown with local dining
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Junipero Serra Park for shaded picnics and kid-friendly hiking
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A quieter feel without sacrificing convenience
Millbrae Pancake House has been a community favorite for over 60 years, serving up hearty breakfasts in a retro setting.
Local Favorites:
• Millbrae Pancake House – a beloved brunch spot since the 1950s
• Tai Wu Restaurant – some of the best dim sum on the Peninsula
• Central Park – open green space, basketball courts, and family events
Popular with: Commuters, airport employees, and families
Types of homes: Mid-century homes, remodeled single-family residences, and charming bungalows
Belmont: Hills, Views, and Hidden Gems
Belmont’s hillside streets offer sweeping Bay views and peaceful living, yet you’re minutes from major freeway access. With excellent public schools and leafy trails, it’s a true under-the-radar favorite. It doesn’t get as much media buzz, but locals know it’s one of the best-kept secrets in San Mateo County. Tucked between San Carlos and San Mateo, it offers stunning hillside homes and a quieter pace.
The neighborhoods here are more residential and less commercial — think winding roads, canopies of trees, and homes with big decks facing the hills or Bay. Despite the tucked-away feel, it’s centrally located for commuters and still offers strong public schools and access to great parks.
Crystal Springs Trail offers Belmont residents a serene escape with scenic views of the reservoir and lush surrounding hills.
What locals love:
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Spacious lots and a peaceful, almost rural atmosphere in areas like Hallmark and Belmont Heights
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Quick access to Crystal Springs hiking trails, Water Dog Lake, and Twin Pines Park
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Good schools and a small-town feel
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Midway between SF and Silicon Valley, with easy access to both 280 and 101
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Less density, more space, and fewer crowds
Local Favorites:
• Vivace Ristorante – cozy Italian dining
• Twin Pines Park – shaded walks, playgrounds, and summer concerts
• The Reading Bug – beloved indie bookstore with events for kids
Popular with: Professionals and growing families
Types of homes: Hillside homes with views, contemporary builds, and post-war classics
Redwood City: Urban Energy and Community Spirit
Redwood City is one of the most dynamic and diverse cities in San Mateo County. Known for its slogan “Climate Best by Government Test,” it boasts some of the best year-round weather on the Peninsula. But it’s not just about sunshine. It combines a buzzing downtown with neighborhood charm. Courthouse Square is a central hub for live music, movies under the stars, and even a winter ice rink.
Redwood City offers a unique mix of walkable urban living, family-friendly neighborhoods, and access to nature. The revitalized downtown is packed with energy: outdoor dining, breweries, indie coffee shops, movie theaters, and seasonal events.
Redwood City’s Courthouse Square comes alive with music, dancing, and community spirit during the city’s popular summer concert series.
What locals love:
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A vibrant downtown with live music, movie nights, and local events
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Top parks including Red Morton Park and the Magical Bridge Playground, Stafford Park, and Stulsaft Park
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Proximity to both the Bay and the hills for weekend escapes
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Cultural diversity and a true mix of ages and backgrounds
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Strong public and charter school options
Local Favorites:
• Vesta – wood-fired pizza with a local following
• Alhambra Irish House – pub vibes with hearty fare
• Red Morton Park – one of the largest parks in the county
Popular with: Young professionals, creatives, and those seeking walkability
Types of homes: Historic bungalows, craftsman homes, and new mixed-use developments
San Mateo: The Heart of the Peninsula
San Mateo offers something for everyone. With excellent schools, diverse food, and walkable neighborhoods, it’s a magnet for both commuters and first-time buyers. Downtown is a culinary hotspot, and neighborhoods like The Village provide quiet streets and community pride. It offers the diversity, housing variety, and energy of a larger city, while still feeling like a community. It’s made up of dozens of unique neighborhoods, each with its own identity. From the high-end homes of Baywood to mid-century homes in Shoreview and condos near downtown.
The Hillsdale Mall adds modern shopping, dining, and entertainment. And there’s no shortage of options when it comes to schools, grocery stores, or weekend events.
A peaceful afternoon at San Mateo’s Japanese Garden, tucked inside Central Park — one of the city’s most cherished escapes.
What locals love:
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Great food and coffee shops throughout downtown and the 25th Avenue corridor
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Laurelwood Park and Sugarloaf Hill for city-close nature time
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Central Park concerts, food truck nights, mini train, and community events
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Access to CuriOdyssey, a hands-on science and wildlife center
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Fast access to 92, 101, and Caltrain for smooth commuting
Local Favorites:
• Backhaus – for fresh sourdough and coffee
• Central Park & Japanese Garden – serene beauty in the middle of town
• San Mateo Event Center – home to the County Fair and year-round expos
Popular with: First-time buyers, families, and hybrid workers
Types of homes: Ranchers, Spanish-style homes, updated condos, and traditional single-family houses
Menlo Park: Tranquility Meets Access
Menlo Park offers a refined yet down-to-earth lifestyle. With leafy streets, top-rated schools, and close proximity to Stanford and Sand Hill Road, it attracts those looking for a peaceful environment without giving up urban access. Downtown Menlo Park is filled with charming bookstores, upscale cafes, and weekly farmers markets that keep the community connected.
With a strong sense of pride and a laid-back pace, Menlo Park feels polished but never pretentious. You’re also minutes from Palo Alto, Stanford Shopping Center, and miles of scenic open space.
The Stanford Shopping Center offers luxury retailers, outdoor dining, and a vibrant atmosphere just minutes from Menlo Park neighborhoods.
What locals love:
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Scenic walkability around downtown and Santa Cruz Avenue
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The Stanford Dish trail and Sharon Park for serene outdoor escapes
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A variety of housing — from bungalows and townhomes to multi-million-dollar estates
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Easy access to Caltrain, El Camino Real, and Highway 280
Local Favorites:
• Cafe Borrone – open-air patio and people-watching
• Flea Street Cafe – seasonal fine dining with a neighborhood feel
• Burgess Park – tennis courts, playgrounds, and an aquatic center
Popular with: Professors, executives, and families seeking top schools
Types of homes: Historic homes near downtown, mid-century ranches, and upscale estates in Sharon Heights
At-a-Glance Comparison
FAQs
Which San Mateo County town is best for commuting to SF or Silicon Valley?
Millbrae, Menlo Park, and San Mateo all offer efficient access via BART, Caltrain, or major freeways.
What towns are most walkable?
San Carlos, Burlingame, and Redwood City stand out for their lively, walkable downtown areas.
Where can I find waterfront homes?
Foster City is your best bet for canal and lagoon-side living, perfect for kayaking and evening walks.
What if I want a peaceful hillside retreat?
Check out Belmont or Sharon Heights in Menlo Park for homes with elevation, views, and tranquility.
So, Which Town is Right for You?
That depends on your lifestyle, commute, and what you want nearby — great schools, nature trails, cafes, or water access. San Mateo County offers a neighborhood for every season of life.
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