Homes in Atherton, CA
Atherton offers luxury living with top-rated schools and beautiful estates, making it one of the most prestigious Peninsula communities.
Why Atherton?
Most Expensive ZIP Code
Atherton consistently ranks as one of the most expensive ZIP codes in America, offering exclusive luxury living with privacy and prestige. The town's reputation attracts high-net-worth individuals seeking the finest Peninsula living experience.
Top-Rated Schools & Educational Excellence
Las Lomitas Elementary School and Menlo-Atherton High School consistently rank among California's top public schools. The strong school system attracts families seeking the best educational opportunities in the Peninsula.
Luxury Estate Living
Atherton offers luxury estate living with very large lots, privacy, and seclusion. The town's low density and exclusive character create a unique residential environment unmatched in the Peninsula.
Interactive Map
Neighborhoods in Atherton
Discover the unique character and charm of Atherton's diverse neighborhoods.
Atherton Estates
Exclusive estate area with large lots, privacy, and luxury homes.
Learn More
Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Luxury estates on very large lots with privacy and seclusion.
Mature trees and natural setting provide privacy and beauty.
Exclusive community with low density and high security.
Lindenwood
Established neighborhood with mature homes and strong community.
Learn More
Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Las Lomitas Elementary and Menlo-Atherton High create excellent educational opportunities.
Large lots accommodate pools, gardens, and outdoor living spaces.
Mature trees and landscaped properties create park-like setting.
West Atherton
Upscale neighborhood with luxury homes and proximity to Menlo Park.
Learn More
Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Convenient access to Menlo Park Caltrain and downtown amenities.
Luxury homes on large lots with privacy and seclusion.
Exclusive community with low density and high security.
Schools in Atherton
Quality education is a cornerstone of Atherton's appeal to families.
| School Name | Level | School Rating | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Las Lomitas Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Laurel Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Encinal Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Menlo-Atherton High School | High | ViewView Rating |
Showing 3 of 4 schools
Note: Verify current ratings and boundaries with official district resources. School assignments may change based on enrollment and boundary adjustments.
Major Employment Hubs & Local Employers
Atherton offers excellent access to major Bay Area job centers and is home to several major employers.
Major Employment Hubs Near Atherton
San Francisco Financial District & Embarcadero - Finance, legal, and tech headquarters reachable in 30-40 minutes via Caltrain.
Silicon Valley Core (Palo Alto / Mountain View / Cupertino) - Technology headquarters and campuses 15-30 minutes away via El Camino Real or Highway 101.
Menlo Park Business District - Technology companies and professional services 5 minutes away providing local employment opportunities.
Top Employers in Atherton
Atherton Town Government
Municipal government operations including town administration, public works, and community services employing local residents in various departments.
Las Lomitas Elementary School District
School district operating Las Lomitas Elementary School, employing educators, administrators, and support staff in comprehensive educational programs.
Menlo-Atherton High School District
School district operating Menlo-Atherton High School, employing educators, administrators, and support staff serving Atherton and Menlo Park students.
Commute Times
Atherton offers excellent connectivity to major job centers, airports, and regional destinations.
Commute to Major Job Centers
Airports
Regional Hotspots
Lifestyle & Amenities
Discover what makes Atherton a special place to live.
Daily rhythms in Atherton blend luxury estate living with convenient Peninsula access. Residents start mornings with privacy and seclusion on large estates before commuting to San Francisco, Silicon Valley, or Stanford University. Evenings bring neighbors to nearby Menlo Park restaurants, community events, or quiet enjoyment of estate properties.
Family life centers around top-rated schools, community connections, and estate living. Parents appreciate Las Lomitas Elementary and Menlo-Atherton High's college prep focus, while the town's exclusive character creates a unique educational environment. Large estates provide space for families to grow and enjoy privacy.
Outdoor culture thrives thanks to large lots, mature trees, and natural setting. Residents enjoy private pools, gardens, and outdoor living spaces on their estates, while proximity to Stanford University and regional parks provides additional recreation opportunities. The natural setting means outdoor living is central to daily life.
Showing 3 of 7 highlights
Weather & Climate
Quick-hit visuals that show how Atherton feels throughout the year.
Temperature Story
Quick look at the seasonal swing in Atherton
Winter Comfort Band
45–55°F
Typical overnight lows from December through February.
Summer Warmth Band
75–85°F
Afternoon highs during peak summer months.
Climate Type
Mediterranean
Overall pattern
Days of Sunshine
260+ days
Bright days/year
Annual Rainfall
20-25 inches
Nov–Mar showers
Atherton's Peninsula location creates mild summers and cool winters.
Mild summers with occasional warm days; cool, wet winters with most rainfall occurring December thro...
Year-round outdoor living is possible thanks to mild temperatures.
Parks & Recreation in Atherton
Atherton maintains over 3 parks and recreational facilities, from neighborhood parks to large regional parks.
Holbrook-Palmer Park
Community Park
Historic park with gardens, community center, and gathering spaces serving Atherton community.
Atherton Open Space
Open Space
Protected open space with walking paths and natural setting serving Atherton neighborhoods.
Menlo Park Parks
Community Parks
Nearby Menlo Park parks provide additional recreation opportunities just minutes from Atherton.
Natural Hazards & Fault Lines
Important information about seismic activity, flood zones, and fire hazards in Atherton.
Major Fault Lines Near Atherton
San Andreas Fault
Runs through western Peninsula, approximately 5 miles west
Type: Right-lateral strike-slip
Hayward Fault
Located roughly 15 miles east across the Bay
Type: Right-lateral strike-slip
Fire Hazard Severity Zones
Low to moderate; most areas are low risk with proper defensible space.
CalFire Classification
Seismic Hazard Zones
Liquefaction Zones
Low to moderate risk in low-lying areas; minimal risk in most neighborhoods on stable ground.
Landslide Zones
Low to moderate susceptibility; most areas are stable with proper site evaluation.
Alquist-Priolo Fault Zone Status
Portions of Atherton may fall within fault zone areas; geological reports required for new construction in designated zones.
FEMA Flood Zones
Zone Type
Zone X in most areas; low flood risk.
Flood Risk Notes
Most homes are in low-risk flood zones. Flash flooding possible in creek corridors during heavy winter storms.
Additional Notes
Atherton participates in regional earthquake preparedness programs. Many older homes may need seismic retrofitting. The town has strict building codes for new construction.
What Locals Say
Hear from residents about living in Atherton.
"Living in Atherton gives us the privacy and prestige we wanted, plus excellent schools and convenient access to Silicon Valley. It's worth the premium for the quality of life."
— Atherton Estate Owner
"The schools here are outstanding, and the community feel is amazing. We know our neighbors, and the kids have access to the best educational opportunities in the Peninsula."
— Lindenwood Parent
Showing 2 of 3 quotes
Local Favorites
Discover recommended restaurants and dining spots in Atherton.
CORNER TABLE
Cozy neighborhood favorite in Atherton serving fresh local flavors.
Selby's
Cozy neighborhood favorite in Atherton serving fresh local flavors.
Telefèric Barcelona Palo Alto
Cozy neighborhood favorite in Atherton serving fresh local flavors.
Showing 3 of 10 restaurants
What Makes Atherton Special
Discover unique features, historical facts, and notable highlights of Atherton.
Most Expensive ZIP Code
Atherton consistently ranks as one of the most expensive ZIP codes in America, offering exclusive luxury living with privacy and prestige.
Top-Rated Schools
Las Lomitas Elementary School and Menlo-Atherton High School consistently rank among California's top public schools.
Luxury Estate Living
Atherton offers luxury estate living with very large lots, privacy, and seclusion unmatched in the Peninsula.
Convenient Peninsula Location
Atherton's central Peninsula location provides easy access to San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and Stanford University.
Natural Beauty
Mature trees, landscaped properties, and large lots create a park-like setting throughout Atherton.
Exclusive Community
Atherton's exclusive community character, low density, and high security create a unique residential environment.
Showing 3 of 6 points
Showing 4 of 6 points
Insider Tips
What to know and what to be aware of when considering Atherton.
What to Know
Commute Considerations
Caltrain access in nearby Menlo Park makes commuting to San Francisco and San Jose convenient. Silicon Valley commutes are typically 15-30 minutes via El Camino Real or Highway 101.
School District Excellence
Las Lomitas Elementary and Menlo-Atherton High are highly rated; students attend schools in these districts.
Showing 2 of 3 tips
What to Avoid
Ignoring Traffic Patterns
El Camino Real and Highway 101 can be congested during commute hours; factor in traffic when considering commute times.
Skipping Seismic Checks
Older homes may need seismic retrofitting; have inspections done before purchase.
Showing 2 of 3 tips
Homes for Sale in Atherton
Active listings coming soon. Contact us for current availability.
Coming Soon
We're working on bringing you real-time listings for Atherton. In the meantime, contact us to get personalized information about available homes in this area.
Nearby Cities
Explore other areas we serve in the San Mateo County region.
Questions About Atherton
Common questions about living and buying in Atherton.
Showing 6 of 24 FAQs
Didn’t find what you were looking for in this city?
Have questions about homes, neighborhoods, schools, or listings in this area? We’re happy to help.
Ready to tour homes in Atherton?
Let Marina's local expertise guide you through finding the perfect home in Atherton. With 16+ years of experience in the San Mateo County area, she knows every neighborhood and market trend.