A mid-size city that feels like a big one, Palo Alto is an energetic, multicultural community. It is at the heart of Silicon Valley, and this history as well as the present tech scene gives it a sense of prestige. The city’s proximity to Stanford University also attracts residents as does its excellent public and private schools.

Although Palo Alto is more spread out than most of the other mid-Peninsula cities, many neighborhoods offer excellent walkability, and residents are into biking. Most lot sizes are smaller than Menlo Park and Atherton ranging from (~5–7,000 square feet), but this does not diminish home values. Anything is possible in Palo Alto including the opportunity to purchase the size you desire, up to an acre.

Neighborhoods that are exclusive yet warm and charming include Old Palo Alto and Crescent Park. Other sought-after areas include Green Gables, Midtown, and Professorville, and South Palo Alto. Architectural styles run the gamut. There are 1930s cottages, adobe, and Santa Fe styles, ranchers, remodels, and new homes. One style that is somewhat unique to the area is the Eichler (modern single-story homes with open floor plans and lots of glass), and there are many of these in Palo Alto.

Palo Alto boasts two major business districts, along University and California avenues. Town and Country Shopping Center and Stanford Shopping Center, at the northern edge of town, also offer many restaurants and shops. Farmers markets take place downtown (May-Dec.) and year-round on California Ave.

The City of Palo Alto has a large recreation department with many class offerings and facilities such as community centers, parks, Rinconada Pool, and the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo.

 • Palo Alto Neighborhood Map