San Carlos

CA
Average Sales Price
$1,967,571
Median Sales Price
$1,988,000
Population
28,392
Total Listings
7
Discover Life in San Carlos with Ramon Estevez
Local Perspective
If I were walking a client through San Carlos, I’d point out how this city manages to feel both close-knit and conveniently connected—a rare balance on the Peninsula. San Carlos is often on my radar for buyers who want a true neighborhood feel without sacrificing access to Silicon Valley or San Francisco. It’s a place where the community spirit is tangible, from the weekend farmers’ market to the bustling downtown along Laurel Street. In my experience, San Carlos appeals to those who value a friendly, approachable vibe but also want to be within reach of major job centers and top schools. I recommend San Carlos to clients who are searching for a place that feels like home from the moment you arrive, with just enough activity to keep life interesting, but never overwhelming.
Neighborhood Highlights
San Carlos is often referred to as 'The City of Good Living,' and it’s easy to see why once you spend some time here. The atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, with tree-lined streets, well-maintained parks, and a downtown that’s always buzzing but never chaotic. What really sets San Carlos apart from nearby neighborhoods is its walkable core—Laurel Street is the heart of it all, with local shops, cafes, and restaurants that draw residents out for strolls and socializing. The community is family-oriented, but there’s a creative, entrepreneurial energy thanks to a mix of longtime locals and newcomers. Whether you’re catching a concert at Burton Park or enjoying a coffee outside, there’s a sense of belonging that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
Homes & Architecture
San Carlos offers a diverse range of homes, from charming pre-war bungalows and mid-century ranches to newer custom builds and thoughtfully designed townhomes. You’ll find neighborhoods with mature trees and classic California architecture, as well as pockets of more modern, updated properties. Many homes feature open layouts, spacious yards, and inviting front porches—perfect for those who love indoor-outdoor living. The age of homes varies, with some beautifully preserved originals and others fully renovated or newly constructed, often blending seamlessly into the established character of the area.

Demographics

Data provided by Attom Data
Population
Employment
Population
28.4K
28.4K in 2020
Density
4.6K
per square mile
Households
11.5K
Total households
Gender
48% / 52%
Men Vs Women
Occupancy
70% / 30%
Owned Vs Rented
Age Median: Years
Education Level

Educational Environment

Elementary Schools (8)Middle Schools (4)High Schools (1)
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
9/10
Arundel Elementary
200 Arundel Rd, San Carlos, CA 94070
Public
PK - 4
No
24:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
8/10
Heather School
2757 Melendy Dr, San Carlos, CA 94070
Public
PK - 4
No
22:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
7/10
Clifford School
225 Clifford Ave, Redwood City, CA 94062
Public
KG - 8
No
23:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Arbor Bay School
1017 Cedar St, San Carlos, CA 94070
Private
KG - 8
Yes
5:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Kindercourt Academy
1225 Greenwood Ave, San Carlos, CA 94070
Private
PK - TKG
No
8:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
10/10
Central Middle School
828 Chestnut St, San Carlos, CA 94070
Public
6 - 8
No
20:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
7/10
Clifford School
225 Clifford Ave, Redwood City, CA 94062
Public
KG - 8
No
23:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Arbor Bay School
1017 Cedar St, San Carlos, CA 94070
Private
KG - 8
Yes
5:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
St Charles School
850 Tamarack Ave, San Carlos, CA 94070
Private
KG - 8
Yes
15:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
0/10
West Bay High School
1561 Laurel St Ste A, San Carlos, CA 94070
Private
9 - 12
Yes
7:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Show More

Amenities & Attractions

Restaurants
Home Services
Health & Medical
Local Services
Shopping
Recreation
Arts & Entertainment
Food
Beauty
Nightlife
Event Planning & Services
Automotive
Religious Organizations
Financial Services
Professional Services
Travel
Pets
Education
Public Services & Government
Local Media
  • In-N-Out Burger

    445 Industrial Rd, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Fast Food Phone: 800-786-1000

  • Rustic House Oyster Bar and Grill

    920 El Camino Real, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Bars Phone: 650-425-3474

  • Daily & Weekely Tiffin Service

    632 Cedar St, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Pakistani Phone: 650-594-3947

  • Fina’s Cafe

    1665 Laurel St, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Coffee & Tea Phone: 650-486-1562

  • New Canton Restaurant

    1160 Laurel St, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Chinese Phone: 650-591-4952

  • Mediterranean Delite

    1620 El Camino Real, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Mediterranean Phone: 650-654-9172

  • CreoLa

    344 El Camino Real, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Cajun/Creole Phone: 650-654-0882

  • San Carlos Grill Off

    828 Chestnut St, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Barbeque

  • Lunch Box

    1163 San Carlos Ave, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Hot Dogs Phone: 650-596-8031

  • Monas Cuisine

    632 Cedar St, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Indian Phone: 650-906-9092

  • TasteVin Wine Bar & Bistro

    890 Laurel St, San Carlos, CA 94070

    Tapas/Small Plates Phone: 650-486-1740

Featured Listings

For Sale (5)
For Sold (31)
More

San Carlos Living: Your Local Questions Answered

To help you make informed decisions, we've compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

What types of homes are found in San Carlos?
San Carlos offers a mix of single-family homes, condos, and some townhomes. Many properties feature classic California architecture, with mature landscaping and established neighborhoods. There’s a blend of older homes and newer builds, so you’ll find a variety of options to suit different tastes and needs.
How is the commute and connectivity from San Carlos?
What’s the lifestyle and walkability like in San Carlos?
How fast do homes typically sell in San Carlos?
What should I know about schools in San Carlos?
Are there HOA fees or special assessments in San Carlos?

Get In Touch