Atherton, CA

Atherton is a town located in San Mateo County, California, United States. Atherton is located in close proximity to many other cities in the Bay Area, including San Francisco and San Jose. The town is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including Holbrook-Palmer Park, which features a large playground, picnic areas, and a historic mansion.

The median home price in Atherton is around $6.5 million, making it one of the most expensive communities in the country. It’s worth noting that some properties in Atherton have sold for over $100 million.

The average sale price per square foot in Atherton is $1,577. The median household income in Atherton is $250,000, which is significantly higher than the national median. Life in the city is 833.3% higher than the national average of 100.

City highlights

Atherton was incorporated in 1923 and was named after Faxon D. Atherton, a prominent landowner, and investor in the area during the late 19th century. The town was originally a summer retreat for wealthy San Franciscans, but over time it became a year-round residential community.

Geographic location

Atherton is a town located in San Mateo County, in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, United States. It is located on the San Francisco Peninsula and is bordered by Menlo Park to the north and Redwood City to the south. Atherton is approximately 20 miles south of San Francisco and 14 miles north of San Jose.

Climate

Atherton has a Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The average temperature in Atherton ranges from the 40°F in winter to the 70°F in summer. It’s worth noting that temperatures can occasionally reach into the 90°F during heatwaves in the summer.

Demography

According to the United States Census Bureau, as of 2020, Atherton had a population of approximately 7,390 people. The median age in Atherton is 49.4 years, which is slightly higher than the national average. The city has a mix of diverse ethnic and racial groups, like white at 70.6%, Asian at 21.8%, Hispanic or Latino at 4.6%, and Black or African American at 1.4%.

Cost of Living

The median home value in Atherton is approximately $7.4 million as of 2021, making it one of the most expensive real estate markets in the United States.

Renting a home in Atherton is also expensive, with the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment being around $5,000 per month, an apartment studio rent costs approximately $3,500 monthly.

The cost of groceries, utilities, and transportation in the city are all above the national average, for example, the average price of a gallon of milk is $4 to $6. Groceries cost $134 per week.

However, the median household income in Atherton is approximately $306,000 per year, which is over five times the national median household income of $62,843 per year.

Transportation

Atherton is located near several major transportation corridors, including Highway 101, which runs along the eastern edge of the town. The town is also served by the Atherton Caltrain Station, which provides commuter rail service to San Francisco and other destinations in the Bay Area. These cities have more commercial areas, pedestrian-friendly streets, and public transportation options, making it easier to get around on foot.

Atherton has a walk score of 15 out of 100, which indicates that it is a car-dependent city. Most errands require a car to complete and there are few amenities and services within walking distance of most neighborhoods.

Schools

There are 2 public elementary schools located in Atherton that are part of the Menlo Park City School District, and several private schools located in Atherton, including Sacred Heart Schools and Menlo School. So, in total, there are at least 4 schools in Atherton.

What is the city like?

Atherton is known for its large, luxurious homes and lush greenery, with many large trees lining the streets. The town is primarily residential, with few commercial or industrial areas.

It is also known for its high quality of life and excellent schools, which are among the top-performing in the state. The town also has a strong sense of community, with many events and activities organized by local residents and organizations.

While Atherton may not be the most walkable city, its location in the Bay Area provides residents with access to a wide range of transportation options, including public transit and biking, which can make it easier to get around without a car.