Welcome to Atherton
Prestigious and affluent residential community known for its stately homes, beautiful tree-lined streets, and tranquil, suburban atmosphere.
Atherton is a small residential town in San Mateo County that is well known for consistently ranking as the most expensive place to live in the United States. Atherton real estate is some of the most expensive in the country with homes for sale in Atherton often selling for over 20, 30, and even 50 million dollars. Home to billionaires, executives, professional athletes, and venture capitalists, Atherton prides itself on the quiet and private lifestyle it offers its residents.
An entirely residential town with no commercial buildings, there are also several schools and parks within Atherton. A key highlight is the 22-acre Holbrook-Palmer Park. This former private estate that was later donated to the town of Atherton provides residents from all Atherton neighborhoods a place to relax, come together, and enjoy the outdoors.
What to Love
People & Lifestyle
With a population of about 7,000 of America’s wealthiest residents, Atherton stands out even in Silicon Valley as an area of massive wealth and affluence. As a result of the town's zoning regulations, only one single-family home can be built per acre, and sidewalks are forbidden, leading to the development of large, stately homes.
As there are no commercial enterprises based in the city, funding for town services comes completely from the residents of Atherton. This direct funding has led to very close relationships based on collaboration with Atherton public services. Atherton enjoys an extremely low crime rate and many of its safety and privacy-minded residents attribute that to the close relationship between residents and public service workers.
The people who are drawn to Atherton neighborhoods are typically those who strongly prioritize stately homes, suburban peace, privacy for themselves and their families, safety, and proximity to both San Francisco and Silicon Valley.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Although Atherton itself is completely residential, the town is a short drive to the neighboring cities of Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Woodside, and Redwood City which offer considerable shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Being in close proximity to Stanford University and the Stanford Shopping Center, an upscale open-air shopping mall, means that Atherton residents do not have to travel far to get what they want.
Selby’s in nearby Redwood City is a popular destination for upscale fine dining from the Spruce team that presents American continental fare. Selby’s is a go-to choice for locals when they want to dress up and celebrate a special occasion.
Many Atherton residents enjoy visiting nearby Downtown Woodside which includes many Silicon Valley favorite eateries including but not limited to
Buck's of Woodside, The Woodside Village Bakery, and the Village Pub. After dinner, many enjoy a drink or occasional live music at Pioneer Saloon, a local watering hole that has been open since 1880 and provides a rustic escape.
Downtown Menlo Park is perhaps the most convenient shopping and dining area for Atherton residents. A very close commute from any Atherton neighborhood, Downtown Menlo Park offers a diverse range of cuisines and shopping options.
Things to Do
The
Holbrook-Palmer Park is a favorite gathering spot for Atherton residents. Atherton received Holbrook-Palmer Park as a gift in 1958 when it was known as the Holbrook-Palmer Estate, a once active rural estate and gentleman's farm. With its unique water tower, carriage house, and other estate architecture, Holbrook-Palmer Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, Holbrook-Palmer Park is a beloved community resource that offers a wide range of recreational activities and a peaceful natural setting. There are well-maintained walking trails that meander through the park's grounds, providing opportunities for residents to enjoy the serene natural surroundings. It's a popular spot for dog walkers, joggers, and families looking to spend time outdoors.
Atherton residents and the local police department maintain a very close relationship, and this is celebrated every year at the annual National Night Out event. Held every August at aforementioned Holbrook-Palmer Park, this collaboration between the Town of Atherton, the Atherton Police Department, and California Highway Patrol, brings everyone together for a celebration of fun, community awareness, and collaboration. Regularly featuring inflatable slides and bounce houses, sugary treats, music, food, and an array of emergency vehicles—the National Night Out is always a great time.
For Atherton residents looking for a close community connection, the
Menlo Circus Club is the longstanding social club of choice. With a history spanning over a hundred year, the Menlo Circus Club is the premier Atherton destination for equestrian activities, swimming, tennis, recreation, and special events.
Schools
As Atherton does not have its own public school district, local children are spread throughout the Redwood City School District,
Sequoia Union High School District, Las Lomitas Elementary School District, or the Menlo Park City School District. Where an Atherton public school student will attend is typically a combination of the parent’s choice, geographic location, and enrollment capacity.
As is common in many ultra-wealthy areas, many Atherton children attend private schools such as Sacred Heart (Preschool - 12th Grade) and Menlo School (6th Grade - 12th Grade) which are both located within town limits.
Menlo College, a private college specializing in business also calls Atherton home.
Find Your Place in Atherton
To learn more about what you can do in and around Atherton, check out our
blog!
