Los Altos

Neighborhood Overview

Los Altos, meaning "The Heights" in Spanish, is a peaceful and upscale city located in Santa Clara County, California. Known for its tree-lined streets, small-town charm, and strong community ties, Los Altos provides a serene suburban lifestyle while remaining closely connected to Silicon Valley’s thriving tech industry.

• Location & Boundaries: Los Altos is situated in the San Francisco Bay Area, bordered by Palo Alto to the northwest, Mountain View to the northeast, Sunnyvale to the east, and Los Altos Hills to the west. Major roads include Foothill Expressway and El Camino Real, offering convenient access to surrounding cities.
• General Characteristics: Covering approximately 6.5 square miles, Los Altos consists primarily of residential neighborhoods with a focus on preserving open spaces and maintaining a low-density, suburban atmosphere. Commercial activity is concentrated downtown and in small office and shopping centers.
• Notable Features: The charming downtown district is home to unique boutiques, restaurants, and cafés. Residents enjoy numerous parks such as Shoup Park and Lincoln Park, which provide outdoor recreation and scenic beauty. The city’s commitment to preserving nature and fostering a close-knit community adds to its desirability.

Housing Market Data

• Median Home Price: As of January 2025, the median home value in Los Altos is $5.4 million, reflecting its reputation as one of the most exclusive and affluent communities in Silicon Valley.
• Price Per Square Foot: With an average price of $1,817 per square foot, Los Altos ranks among the highest-priced real estate markets in the nation.

Demographics

• Population Size & Growth Trends: As of 2023, Los Altos has a population of approximately 29,990 residents, experiencing modest growth while maintaining its small-town feel.
• Household Types: Based on the 2020 U.S. Census, Los Altos consists of 10,557 households, with an average household size of 2.83 individuals.
• Income Levels: As of 2023, the median household income in Los Altos is $250,000, placing it among the wealthiest cities in the United States.
• Education Levels: Los Altos is a highly educated community, with 87.2% of adults holding a college degree or higher.

Schools & Education

• Public & Private Schools: Los Altos is served by the Los Altos School District and the Mountain View–Los Altos Union High School District, featuring top-rated schools such as Los Altos High School and Mountain View High School. Prestigious private schools include St. Simon Catholic School and Pinewood School.
• School Performance: Schools in Los Altos consistently rank among the best in California, with high test scores and graduation rates.
• Proximity to Colleges & Universities: The city is located near world-renowned institutions such as Stanford University and Foothill College, providing access to academic, cultural, and athletic opportunities.

Community & Lifestyle

• Walkability & Bikeability: Los Altos is pedestrian-friendly, particularly in its charming downtown district, making it an ideal place for walking and biking.
• Parks & Recreation: Residents enjoy numerous parks and nature preserves, including Shoup Park, Redwood Grove Nature Preserve, and Lincoln Park, offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic outdoor spaces.
• Local Amenities: Downtown Los Altos is home to upscale shops, specialty boutiques, and fine dining establishments, creating a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
• Dining Scene: Popular restaurants include Chef Chu’s (Chinese), Los Altos Grill (American), Pompeii (Italian), Armadillo Willy’s (Barbecue), and State of Mind Public House & Pizzeria (Pizza).
• Cultural & Entertainment Venues: Los Altos hosts various cultural and entertainment venues, including theaters, museums, and art galleries.
• Community Events & Activities: The city fosters a strong sense of community through seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and local gatherings.
• Sports & Fitness: The city offers a range of sports programs, with tennis courts, fitness centers, and youth athletic leagues.

Economy & Employment

• Major Employers & Industries: While primarily a residential community, Los Altos has a thriving economy in retail, dining, and professional services. Many residents work in nearby tech hubs, contributing to the city’s economic strength.
• Unemployment Rate: Los Altos maintains a low unemployment rate, reflecting economic stability and a high demand for skilled professionals.
• Job Growth Trends: The city benefits from steady job growth, particularly in the technology, finance, and healthcare sectors.

Transportation & Accessibility

• Commute Times: Los Altos residents enjoy short commute times to Silicon Valley’s major employment centers.
• Public Transit Options: Although public transit is limited within Los Altos, nearby Caltrain stations in Mountain View and Palo Alto provide easy access to the greater Bay Area.
• Highway & Road Access: Major roads such as Foothill Expressway and El Camino Real connect Los Altos to surrounding cities and employment hubs.