Homes in Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto offers excellent schools, vibrant downtown, and convenient Caltrain access, making it one of the most prestigious South Bay communities.
Why Palo Alto?
Stanford University
Palo Alto is home to Stanford University, one of the world's leading research universities. The presence of Stanford creates employment opportunities, cultural programming, and contributes to the city's innovation economy.
Top-Rated Schools
Palo Alto offers some of California's highest-rated public schools including Palo Alto High and Gunn High, which consistently rank among the state's top public high schools. The strong school system attracts families seeking the best educational opportunities.
Vibrant Downtown
Palo Alto's downtown offers a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and community events. The downtown serves as a gathering place where neighbors connect and celebrate together.
Interactive Map
Neighborhoods in Palo Alto
Discover the unique character and charm of Palo Alto's diverse neighborhoods.
Downtown Palo Alto
Vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and community events along University Avenue.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Vibrant downtown with shops, restaurants, and weekly farmers market along University Avenue.
Direct Caltrain access for convenient commuting to San Francisco and San Jose.
Community festivals, cultural events, and Stanford connections.
Old Palo Alto
Upscale neighborhood with excellent schools and established homes on tree-lined streets.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Palo Alto High and Gunn High consistently rank among California's top public high schools.
Established homes on medium to large lots with mature landscaping and character.
Quiet streets and strong community associations fostering neighborhood pride.
College Terrace
Family-friendly neighborhood with good schools and proximity to Stanford University.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Strong schools including Palo Alto High create excellent educational opportunities.
Walking distance to Stanford University and convenient Caltrain access.
Community parks and recreation facilities serving families.
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Schools in Palo Alto
Quality education is a cornerstone of Palo Alto's appeal to families.
| School Name | Level | School Rating | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Addison Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Barron Park Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Duveneck Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| El Carmelo Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Fairmeadow Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Herbert Hoover Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Juana Briones Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Ohlone Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Palo Verde Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Walter Hays Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Ellen Fletcher Middle | Middle | ViewView Rating | |
| Frank S. Greene Jr. Middle | Middle | ViewView Rating | |
| Jane Lathrop Stanford Middle School | Middle | ViewView Rating | |
| Henry M. Gunn High School | High | ViewView Rating | |
| Palo Alto High School | High | ViewView Rating |
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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
Palo Alto offers excellent access to major Bay Area job centers and is home to several major employers.
Major Employment Hubs Near Palo Alto
Stanford University / Palo Alto - Educational, research, and technology employers reachable in 5 minutes via local roads or walking.
Silicon Valley Core (Mountain View / Cupertino / Sunnyvale) - Technology headquarters and campuses 10-20 minutes away via Highway 101 or I-880.
San Jose Downtown & Tech Corridor - Technology companies, finance, and professional services reachable in 20-25 minutes via Caltrain or Highway 101.
Top Employers in Palo Alto
Stanford University
World-renowned research university employing thousands in academic, research, administrative, and support roles serving the education and technology sectors.
Palo Alto City Government
Municipal government operations including city administration, public works, and community services employing local residents in various departments.
Palo Alto Unified School District
School district operating multiple elementary and middle schools, plus Palo Alto High and Gunn High, employing educators, administrators, and support staff in comprehensive educational programs.
Commute Times
Palo Alto offers excellent connectivity to major job centers, airports, and regional destinations.
Commute to Major Job Centers
Airports
Regional Hotspots
Lifestyle & Amenities
Discover what makes Palo Alto a special place to live.
Daily rhythms in Palo Alto blend technology hub energy with academic excellence and family-friendly living. Residents start mornings with coffee at downtown cafes before commuting to Stanford, Silicon Valley companies, or San Francisco, arriving in 5-35 minutes. Evenings bring neighbors to community parks, school events, or downtown restaurants that keep the community engaged throughout the year.
Family life centers around top-rated schools, community parks, and strong neighborhood connections. Parents appreciate access to Palo Alto High and Gunn High, which consistently rank among California's best, while elementary schools like Addison, Barron Park, and Duveneck provide excellent foundations. Neighborhoods like Downtown Palo Alto, Old Palo Alto, and College Terrace provide community parks and programs that bring families together.
Outdoor culture thrives thanks to community parks, recreation facilities, and proximity to regional parks. Residents enjoy hiking trails, sports facilities, and nature access just minutes from home, while the South Bay setting provides scenic beauty year-round. The natural setting means outdoor recreation is central to daily life.
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Weather & Climate
Quick-hit visuals that show how Palo Alto feels throughout the year.
Temperature Story
Quick look at the seasonal swing in Palo Alto
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
15-20 inches
Nov–Mar showers
Palo Alto's South Bay 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 Palo Alto
Palo Alto maintains over 10 parks and recreational facilities, from neighborhood parks to large regional parks.
Rinconada Park
Community Park
Large community park with sports fields, playground equipment, community center, and tennis courts serving Palo Alto neighborhoods.
Foothills Park
Regional Park
1,400-acre regional park featuring extensive hiking trails, scenic views, lake, and natural setting serving Palo Alto and surrounding communities.
Mitchell Park
Community Park
Popular community park with recreation facilities, walking paths, library, and large gathering spaces serving Palo Alto community.
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Natural Hazards & Fault Lines
Important information about seismic activity, flood zones, and fire hazards in Palo Alto.
Major Fault Lines Near Palo Alto
San Andreas Fault
Runs through western Santa Clara County, approximately 10 miles west
Type: Right-lateral strike-slip
Hayward Fault
Located roughly 25 miles northwest 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 Palo Alto 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
Palo Alto participates in regional earthquake preparedness programs. Many older homes may need seismic retrofitting. The city has strict building codes for new construction.
What Locals Say
Hear from residents about living in Palo Alto.
"Living in Palo Alto gives us access to Stanford and top-rated schools. The downtown is amazing, and we love the community feel."
— Downtown Palo Alto Resident
"The schools here are outstanding, especially Palo Alto High and Gunn High. The kids have access to the best educational opportunities in the South Bay."
— Old Palo Alto Parent
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Local Favorites
Discover recommended restaurants and dining spots in Palo Alto.
Nola
Popular downtown restaurant serving creative American cuisine with craft cocktails. The lively atmosphere and quality food make it a neighborhood favorite.
Evvia Estiatorio
Upscale Greek restaurant known for authentic Mediterranean dishes, fresh seafood, and excellent wine selection. Perfect for special occasions and date nights.
Rose & Crown
Authentic British pub serving traditional fare, craft beers, and pub classics. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a local gathering spot.
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What Makes Palo Alto Special
Discover unique features, historical facts, and notable highlights of Palo Alto.
Stanford University
Palo Alto is home to Stanford University, one of the world's leading research universities, creating employment opportunities and cultural programming.
Top-Rated Schools
Palo Alto High and Gunn High consistently rank among California's top public high schools, attracting families seeking educational excellence.
Foothills Park
1,400-acre regional park featuring extensive hiking trails, scenic views, lake, and natural setting serving as beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Baylands Nature Preserve
Large marshland preserve featuring trails, bird-watching opportunities, and scenic bay views emphasizing conservation and recreation.
Vibrant Downtown
Palo Alto's downtown dates back to the early 1900s and features shops, restaurants, and community events creating vibrant community gathering place.
Silicon Valley Location
Palo Alto's central Silicon Valley location provides easy access to major technology companies, Stanford University, and employment centers.
Caltrain Access
Caltrain station in downtown Palo Alto provides convenient access to San Francisco, San Jose, and Peninsula employment centers.
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Insider Tips
What to know and what to be aware of when considering Palo Alto.
What to Know
Commute Considerations
Caltrain access in downtown Palo Alto makes commuting to San Francisco and San Jose convenient. Silicon Valley commutes are typically 10-20 minutes via Highway 101 or I-880.
School District Excellence
Palo Alto Unified School District serves the city; Palo Alto High and Gunn High consistently rank among California's top public high schools.
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What to Avoid
Ignoring Traffic Patterns
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.
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Homes for Sale in Palo Alto
Active listings coming soon. Contact us for current availability.
Coming Soon
We're working on bringing you real-time listings for Palo Alto. In the meantime, contact us to get personalized information about available homes in this area.
Nearby Cities
Explore other areas we serve in the Santa Clara County region.
Questions About Palo Alto
Common questions about living and buying in Palo Alto.
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