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San Carlos

🏙️ About This City


San Carlos, incorporated in 1925, is a vibrant community located in San Mateo County on the San Francisco Peninsula. Often referred to as "The City of Good Living," San Carlos combines small-town charm with the convenience of urban access. With tree-lined streets, a bustling downtown, and a strong sense of community, it remains a highly desirable place to live. As of 2025, the city has an estimated population of around 30,000 residents.

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San Carlos boasts a walkable downtown filled with local boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a thriving business district. Its central location between San Francisco and Silicon Valley makes it a top choice for professionals and families alike.

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🗺️ Neighborhood 


San Carlos offers a mix of hillside and flatland neighborhoods, each with its own unique character:

 

  • White Oaks – One of the most popular neighborhoods, known for its charming homes, family-friendly vibe, and proximity to Burton Park and downtown.

  • Howard Park – Centrally located with a mix of traditional and updated homes, offering walkability to schools and shops.

  • Beverly Terrace – A hillside neighborhood with panoramic views, larger lots, and a more tranquil setting.

  • Clearfield Park – A light industrial and residential area near the eastern edge, with newer developments and access to transportation.

  • Cordes – Features historic homes on quiet streets just west of El Camino Real, popular for its access to amenities.

  • Alder Manor – Located in the hills with scenic surroundings and quick access to open space and hiking trails.

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🎓 Schools

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🏫 Elementary Schools

San Carlos is served by the San Carlos School District (SCSD), which operates K–8 schools using a TK–3, 4–5, and 6–8 model rather than traditional standalone elementary/middle divisions.

San Carlos School District (SCSD):
Elementary schools (Grades TK–3 or 4–5) include:

  • Arundel School – TK–3

  • Brittan Acres School – TK–3

  • White Oaks School – Grades 4–5

  • Heather School – Grades 4–5

School assignments are based on neighborhood zones. Typically, Arundel and Brittan Acres feed into Heather and White Oaks for 4th–5th grade.

📍 SCSD Attendance Boundary Map:

https://www.scsdk8.org/apps/pages/Schools

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🏫 Upper Elementary & Middle Schools

San Carlos School District (SCSD):

  • Tierra Linda Middle School – Grades 6–8

  • Central Middle School – Grades 6–8

  • Mariposa School (part of the San Carlos Charter Learning Center – Grades 4–8)

  • San Carlos Charter Learning Center (Public charter school offering K–8)

Middle school assignments are based on elementary feeder patterns. All students transition to one of the two middle schools depending on their residence.

📍 Check with the district to confirm paths:
https://www.scsdk8.org/apps/pages/Schools

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🏫 High School

San Carlos is part of the Sequoia Union High School District (SUHSD):

  • Carlmont High School – The assigned comprehensive public high school for nearly all students residing in San Carlos

Carlmont High is located in neighboring Belmont and serves students from both Belmont and San Carlos.

📍 SUHSD Boundary Maps & School Locator:

https://www.schfinder.com/SUHSD/

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📍 Determine Your Assigned Schools

To verify the public school assignments for a specific property in San Carlos:

📈 Market Trends


San Carlos has a strong and competitive real estate market, reflecting its popularity and high quality of life:

  • Median Home Price (2025): Approximately $2.2 million

  • Price per Square Foot: Around $1,350

  • Average Time on Market: 10–14 days

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Homes often receive multiple offers, especially in neighborhoods near downtown or top schools. The city appeals to buyers looking for a balance of lifestyle, community, and commuter convenience.

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