San Mateo, California stands as the largest city in San Mateo County with 98,441 residents, offering a perfect blend of urban sophistication and suburban comfort. Known for its vibrant downtown with excellent shopping and dining, excellent schools, and strategic location between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, San Mateo represents one of the most desirable places to live on the San Francisco Peninsula.
With a median home price of approximately $1.8 million to $2.2 million and a thriving local economy, San Mateo offers exceptional value in San Mateo County's competitive real estate market. The city's diverse neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and convenient access to major employment centers make it an ideal choice for families, professionals, and investors seeking long-term value and quality of life.
This comprehensive guide provides in-depth analysis of San Mateo's zip codes 94401, 94402, and 94403, exploring everything from neighborhood characteristics and market trends to school ratings and expert buying strategies. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or experienced investor, understanding San Mateo's real estate landscape is essential for making informed purchasing decisions.
94401
San Mateo - Downtown & Central
Neighborhood Overview
Zip code 94401 encompasses downtown San Mateo and the central neighborhoods, featuring the city's vibrant commercial district with excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options. This zip code offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and residential charm, making it one of the most desirable areas in San Mateo County.
Key Features & Attractions
- Downtown San Mateo: Vibrant downtown with diverse restaurants, boutique shops, theaters, and community events
- Central Park: Beautiful 16-acre park with playgrounds, sports facilities, and the Japanese Tea Garden
- Caltrain Station: Convenient public transportation connecting to San Francisco and San Jose
- San Mateo Public Library: Modern library facility serving the community
- Excellent Schools: Highly rated San Mateo-Foster City School District and San Mateo Union High School District
- Prime Location: Central Peninsula location with easy access to Highway 101 and 280
Real Estate Market Analysis
The 94401 real estate market features median home prices ranging from $1.8 million to $2.2 million, offering a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. The area offers properties from the 1920s-1960s with character and charm, as well as newer constructionand renovated homes. Typical homes feature 3-4 bedrooms, 2-3 bathrooms, and 1,500-2,800 square feetof living space.
Investment potential in 94401 is strong due to San Mateo's excellent schools, walkable downtown, and proximity to major employment centers. Properties near downtown and Central Park command premium prices and offer excellent resale potential. The area's diverse housing stock and strong community engagement contribute to long-term property value appreciation.
Schools & Education
94401 schools are served by the San Mateo-Foster City School District and San Mateo Union High School District, both consistently rated among the top districts in San Mateo County. Notable schools include Laurel Elementary School (9/10), Bayside Middle School (9/10), and San Mateo High School (9/10). The area also offers proximity to College of San Mateo and other higher education institutions.
Buying Strategy for 94401
For buyers considering 94401 San Mateo real estate, we recommend focusing on properties within walking distance of downtown or near Central Park for maximum appreciation potential. Look for homes with updated kitchens and bathrooms, as these improvements command premium prices in this competitive market. Consider properties with ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) potential for additional rental income, and prioritize homes in the top school attendance zones for long-term value.
First-time buyers should be prepared for a competitive market and consider properties that may need cosmetic updates. Investors should focus on properties near downtown or with ADU potential. Work with a local agent who understands San Mateo's unique market dynamics and can help navigate multiple-offer situations effectively.
94402
San Mateo - North & Hillsdale
Neighborhood Overview
Zip code 94402 encompasses northern San Mateo and the Hillsdale area, featuring established residential neighborhoods with excellent schools and convenient access to shopping and transportation. This zip code offers a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility, making it highly desirable for families and professionals.
Key Features & Attractions
- Hillsdale Shopping Center: Major shopping destination with retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment
- Bay Meadows Park: Beautiful park with sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails
- Caltrain Access: Convenient public transportation at Hillsdale Station
- Excellent Schools: Highly rated San Mateo-Foster City School District serving the area
- Prime Location: Easy access to Highway 101 and 280 for commuting
- Family-Friendly: Safe neighborhoods with strong community engagement
Real Estate Market Analysis
The 94402 real estate market features median home prices ranging from $1.9 million to $2.3 million, offering a mix of single-family homes from the 1950s-1980s with well-maintained properties and newer construction. The area offers spacious lots and mature landscaping, creating an attractive residential environment. Typical homes feature 3-5 bedrooms, 2-3 bathrooms, and 1,800-3,000 square feetof living space.
Investment potential in 94402 is strong due to the area's excellent schools, convenient shopping, and proximity to major employment centers. Properties near Hillsdale Shopping Center and top-rated schools command premium prices and offer excellent resale potential. The area's stable neighborhoods and strong community spiritcontribute to long-term property value appreciation.
Schools & Education
94402 schools are served by the San Mateo-Foster City School District and San Mateo Union High School District, both consistently rated among the top districts in San Mateo County. Notable schools include Hillsdale High School (9/10), Borel Middle School (9/10), and Foster City Elementary School (9/10). The area also offers proximity to College of San Mateo and other higher education institutions.
Buying Strategy for 94402
For buyers considering 94402 San Mateo real estate, we recommend focusing on properties in top school attendance zones or near Hillsdale Shopping Center for maximum appreciation potential. Look for homes with updated interiors and well-maintained exteriors, as these are highly valued in this competitive market. Consider properties with expansion potential or ADU potential for additional value, and prioritize homes with good lot sizes for long-term investment.
First-time buyers should be prepared for a competitive market and work closely with a local agent who understands San Mateo's unique dynamics. Investors may find opportunities in properties that can be upgraded to attract high-quality tenants or command premium resale prices. Leveraging pre-approval and being ready to act quickly are crucial for success in San Mateo's fast-paced market.
94403
San Mateo - South & Bay Meadows
Neighborhood Overview
Zip code 94403 encompasses southern San Mateo and the Bay Meadows area, featuring diverse residential neighborhoods with excellent access to transportation and employment centers. This zip code offers a perfect blend of affordability and convenience, making it attractive for first-time buyers and growing families.
Key Features & Attractions
- Bay Meadows Station: Caltrain station providing convenient access to San Francisco and Silicon Valley
- Bay Meadows Park: Large park with sports facilities, playgrounds, and recreational amenities
- Convenient Access: Easy access to Highway 101 and 280 for commuting
- Excellent Schools: Highly rated San Mateo-Foster City School District serving the area
- Diverse Housing: Mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums
- Growing Community: New developments and revitalization projects enhancing the area
Real Estate Market Analysis
The 94403 real estate market features median home prices ranging from $1.8 million to $2.1 million, offering excellent value in San Mateo's competitive market. The area offers a mix of single-family homes from the 1960s-1990s and newer construction in planned communities. Typical homes feature 3-4 bedrooms, 2-3 bathrooms, and 1,600-2,600 square feetof living space.
Investment potential in 94403 is strong due to the area's convenient transportation access, excellent schools, and growing development. Properties near Bay Meadows Station and top-rated schools offer excellent appreciation potential. The area's diverse housing options and strategic location make it attractive for both primary residences and investment properties.
Schools & Education
94403 schools are served by the San Mateo-Foster City School District and San Mateo Union High School District, both consistently rated among the top districts in San Mateo County. Notable schools include San Mateo High School (9/10), Abbott Middle School (9/10), and Sunset Elementary School (9/10). The area also offers proximity to College of San Mateo and other higher education institutions.
Buying Strategy for 94403
For buyers considering 94403 San Mateo real estate, we recommend focusing on properties near Bay Meadows Station or in top school attendance zones for maximum appreciation potential. Look for homes with renovation potential or updated features, as these offer excellent value in this market. Consider properties with good lot sizes or expansion potential for long-term investment, and prioritize homes with convenient access to transportation and employment centers.
First-time buyers should be prepared for a competitive market and consider properties that may need updates but offer good value. Investors should focus on properties near transportation hubs or with renovation potential. Work with a local agent who understands San Mateo's market dynamics and can help identify properties with the best appreciation potential.
Ready to Buy in San Mateo?
Work with a local San Mateo real estate expert who understands the nuances of the 94401, 94402, and 94403 markets. Get personalized guidance, off-market opportunities, and expert negotiation to secure your dream home.