San Mateo is known for its diverse community, thriving downtown area and central location. It is the largest city in San Mateo County.
Downtown
The downtown area, centered around B Street and 3rd Avenue, is a bustling commercial and entertainment district. It offers an array of shops, more than 100 restaurants and cafes, including Michelin-starred eateries. Downtown is also home to Central Park, which hosts events and provides lush, open spaces for everyone to enjoy. A few miles from downtown is also Hillsdale Shopping Center, a large regional shopping mall featuring a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.
Community
San Mateo residents actively participate in community activities and organizations. The city organizes events throughout the year, such as the San Mateo County Fair and the Central Park Music Series. Residents also engage with local groups, including the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce and various neighborhood associations.
Schools
San Mateo is served by the San Mateo-Foster City School District and the San Mateo Union High School District. The city has several public schools, including highly regarded Aragon High School and San Mateo High School. There are also private school options available within the city and surrounding area. Click here to determine assigned elementary and middle school, and here for high school.
Parks & Recreation
San Mateo offers numerous parks and recreational facilities. Central Park, the city's largest park, features playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, and a Japanese Tea Garden. Other parks, such as Coyote Point Park and Shoreline Park, offer waterfront views, walking trails, and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Location
San Mateo is situated on the San Francisco Peninsula, about 20 miles south of San Francisco and 30 miles north of San Jose. It is bordered by Burlingame to the north and Foster City to the south. The city benefits from its proximity to major employment centers and transportation routes, and has three Caltrain stations providing convenient commuting options. With a population of 100,900 and city size around 15 square miles.