Homes in Portola Valley, CA
Portola Valley offers luxury living with top-rated schools and beautiful natural surroundings, making it one of the most prestigious Peninsula communities.
Why Portola Valley?
Natural Beauty & Open Space
Portola Valley offers extensive open space, hiking trails, and natural beauty creating unique Peninsula lifestyle. The town's commitment to preserving natural surroundings creates a unique residential environment unmatched in the Peninsula.
Top-Rated Schools & Educational Excellence
Ormondale Elementary School and Corte Madera 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
Portola Valley 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 Portola Valley
Discover the unique character and charm of Portola Valley's diverse neighborhoods.
Portola Valley Estates
Exclusive estate area with large lots, privacy, and luxury homes.
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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.
Natural setting with mature trees and open space.
Exclusive community with low density and high security.
Alpine Hills
Hillside neighborhood with views and established homes.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Panoramic views of Peninsula and surrounding hills.
Established homes with privacy and natural setting.
Hillside setting provides natural beauty and views.
Westridge
Established neighborhood with mature homes and strong community.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Ormondale Elementary and Corte Madera School create excellent educational opportunities.
Community parks and programs bring families together.
Natural setting provides privacy and beauty.
Schools in Portola Valley
Quality education is a cornerstone of Portola Valley's appeal to families.
| School Name | Level | School Rating | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ormondale Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Corte Madera School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Woodside High School | High | ViewView Rating |
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
Portola Valley offers excellent access to major Bay Area job centers and is home to several major employers.
Major Employment Hubs Near Portola Valley
Silicon Valley Core (Palo Alto / Mountain View / Cupertino) - Technology headquarters and campuses 15-30 minutes away via Highway 280 or I-280.
San Francisco Financial District & Embarcadero - Finance, legal, and tech headquarters reachable in 35-45 minutes via Caltrain.
Stanford University / Palo Alto - Educational, research, and technology employers 10 minutes west via Alpine Road.
Top Employers in Portola Valley
Portola Valley Town Government
Municipal government operations including town administration, public works, and community services employing local residents in various departments.
Portola Valley School District
School district operating Ormondale Elementary School and Corte Madera School, employing educators, administrators, and support staff in comprehensive educational programs.
Sequoia Union High School District
School district operating Woodside High School, employing educators, administrators, and support staff serving Portola Valley and surrounding communities.
Commute Times
Portola Valley offers excellent connectivity to major job centers, airports, and regional destinations.
Commute to Major Job Centers
Airports
Regional Hotspots
Lifestyle & Amenities
Discover what makes Portola Valley a special place to live.
Daily rhythms in Portola Valley blend luxury estate living with natural beauty and convenient Peninsula access. Residents start mornings with privacy and seclusion on large estates before commuting to San Francisco, Silicon Valley, or Stanford University via Caltrain. Evenings bring neighbors to hiking trails, community events, or quiet enjoyment of estate properties.
Family life centers around top-rated schools, community connections, and estate living. Parents appreciate Ormondale Elementary and Corte Madera School's college prep focus, while Woodside High offers comprehensive programs. Large estates provide space for families to grow and enjoy privacy.
Outdoor culture thrives thanks to extensive open space, hiking trails, and natural setting. Residents enjoy hiking, nature access, and outdoor recreation just minutes from home, while the Peninsula setting provides scenic beauty year-round. The natural setting means outdoor activities are central to daily life.
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Weather & Climate
Quick-hit visuals that show how Portola Valley feels throughout the year.
Temperature Story
Quick look at the seasonal swing in Portola Valley
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
Portola Valley'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 Portola Valley
Portola Valley maintains over 2 parks and recreational facilities, from neighborhood parks to large regional parks.
Portola Valley Open Space
Open Space
Extensive open space with hiking trails, scenic views, and natural setting serving Portola Valley neighborhoods.
Alpine Hills Open Space
Open Space
Open space with hiking trails, scenic views, and natural setting serving Portola Valley neighborhoods.
Natural Hazards & Fault Lines
Important information about seismic activity, flood zones, and fire hazards in Portola Valley.
Major Fault Lines Near Portola Valley
San Andreas Fault
Runs through western Peninsula, approximately 3 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
Moderate to high; hillside areas require proper defensible space and fire-resistant construction.
CalFire Classification
Seismic Hazard Zones
Liquefaction Zones
Low to moderate risk in low-lying areas; minimal risk in hillside neighborhoods on stable ground.
Landslide Zones
Moderate to high susceptibility on steep hillside slopes, especially during heavy winter storms. Hillside neighborhoods require careful site evaluation.
Alquist-Priolo Fault Zone Status
Portions of Portola Valley 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
Portola Valley participates in regional earthquake preparedness programs. Many older homes may need seismic retrofitting. The town has strict building codes for new construction. Hillside location requires careful site evaluation.
What Locals Say
Hear from residents about living in Portola Valley.
"Living in Portola Valley gives us luxury estate living with top-rated schools and natural beauty. The open space and hiking trails are amazing, and we love the privacy and seclusion."
— Portola Valley Estates Owner
"The schools are outstanding, and the natural setting provides great spaces for families. Plus, we're so close to Stanford and Silicon Valley for work."
— Westridge Parent
Local Favorites
Discover recommended restaurants and dining spots in Portola Valley.
Parkside Grille
Cozy neighborhood favorite in Portola Valley serving fresh local flavors.
Trout's Cafe
Cozy neighborhood favorite in Portola Valley serving fresh local flavors.
Portola Bistro
Cozy neighborhood favorite in Portola Valley serving fresh local flavors.
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What Makes Portola Valley Special
Discover unique features, historical facts, and notable highlights of Portola Valley.
Natural Beauty
Portola Valley offers extensive open space, hiking trails, and natural beauty creating unique Peninsula lifestyle.
Top-Rated Schools
Ormondale Elementary School and Corte Madera School consistently rank among California's top public schools.
Luxury Estates
Portola Valley offers luxury estate living with very large lots, privacy, and seclusion unmatched in the Peninsula.
Convenient Peninsula Location
Portola Valley's central Peninsula location provides easy access to San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and Stanford University.
Exclusive Community
Portola Valley's exclusive community character, low density, and high security create a unique residential environment.
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Insider Tips
What to know and what to be aware of when considering Portola Valley.
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 Highway 280 or I-280.
Estate Living
Portola Valley offers luxury estate living with very large lots; most homes are custom-built on large properties.
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What to Avoid
Ignoring Traffic Patterns
Highway 280 and Alpine Road 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 Portola Valley
Active listings coming soon. Contact us for current availability.
Coming Soon
We're working on bringing you real-time listings for Portola Valley. In the meantime, contact us to get personalized information about available homes in this area.
Nearby Cities
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Questions About Portola Valley
Common questions about living and buying in Portola Valley.
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