Palo Alto Photo

Charleston Gardens, Palo Alto,CA

Neighborhood Data
Proximitii Score score
? /100
Amenities Score Amenities Score Locked
Transit Score Transit & Commute Score Locked
Schools Score Schools Score Locked
Health & Safety Score Health & Safety Score Locked
City Crime Score Crime (City) Score Locked
Location Crime Score Crime (Location) Score Locked
Economy Score Economy Score Locked
Housing Score Housing Score Locked

Charleston Gardens, nestled in the southeast part of Palo Alto, is a charming neighborhood that offers a wonderful blend of suburban tranquility and convenient city access. Known for its tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes, it’s an inviting community for families and professionals alike. Residents appreciate the peaceful atmosphere here, with plenty of green spaces and parks nearby, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those who enjoy weekend strolls or family picnics. The neighborhood’s sense of community is strong, with local events and gatherings that help neighbors get to know one another and foster a friendly environment.

One of the standout attractions in Charleston Gardens is the nearby Charleston Park, a lovely spot featuring playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas that cater to all ages. It’s a fantastic place for kids to play and for adults to unwind or exercise. Additionally, the neighborhood benefits from its proximity to the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve, offering miles of trails for hiking, birdwatching, and biking, perfect for those who love immersing themselves in nature just a short drive away. For everyday needs, the area has convenient access to shopping centers, local cafes, and a variety of dining options, ensuring that everything you need is never far from home.

When it comes to accessibility, Charleston Gardens is just a short drive from downtown Palo Alto, making it easy for residents to enjoy the vibrant urban scene whenever they wish. Whether you’re heading out for work, dining at one of the trendy restaurants, or exploring the shops and cultural venues downtown, the commute is straightforward and efficient. This proximity adds to the neighborhood’s appeal, offering the best of both worlds—a quiet residential feel with quick access to the bustling city center. For anyone moving to Palo Alto, Charleston Gardens provides a welcoming setting that balances community charm with modern convenience.

Community Snapshot

Population 1,213
Density (People/sqml.) 5,903
Median Age 46.1
Married Couples
59%
59% of the population of Charleston Gardens aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
35%
35% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Charleston Gardens, 35% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 35% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Charleston Gardens neighborhood age breakdown chart

Charleston Gardens demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,213 residents, Charleston Gardens is notably smaller than many other Palo Alto neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Charleston Gardens has a population density of 5,903, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Palo Alto neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 46, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in Charleston Gardens

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
Try for free within 1 mile
Score Locked per 100k people

Types of Crime

Charleston Gardens neighborhood age breakdown chart

Charleston Gardens Crime Map

The Charleston Gardens crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

? /10
Home Price $1,894,334
Median Rent $2,438
People/Household 2.7

Home Price Breakdown

Charleston Gardens neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 43% Own 57%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 63% After 2010 37%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Charleston Gardens, home prices come in around $1,894,334, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Charleston Gardens can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,438, rental rates in Charleston Gardens are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Peet's Coffee
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Starbucks
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Community School of Music and Arts
Theatre Arts
min.
min.
Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Subway
Fast Food
min.
min.
Taco Bell
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Crossroads Specialty Foods
Grocery Store
min.
min.
Piazza's Fine Foods
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Playground
Playground
min.
min.
Playground
Playground
min.
min.

Shops

Arco
Convenience Store
min.
min.
Blades Styling
Hairdresser
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Middlefield Road & Montrose Avenue
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Middlefield Road & Montrose Avenue
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Pinnacle Physical Therapy
Clinic
min.
min.
NowRx
Pharmacy
min.
min.

Health Care

Acupuncture Clinic
Doctor
min.
min.
Gental Dental
Dentist
min.
min.

Safety

Mitchell Park Fire Station
Fire Station
min.
min.
Mountain View Fire Station #3
Fire Station
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Imagination School
4000 Middlefield Rd Rm 3, Palo Alto, CA
Elementary School KG - 6 School Score
Meira Academy
3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Greendell
4120 Midfield Rd., Palo Alto, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Herbert Hoover Elementary
445 E. Charleston Rd., Palo Alto, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Hope Technology School
2525 E Bayshore Rd, Palo Alto, CA
High School KG - 10 School Score
Henry M. Gunn High
780 Arastradero Rd., Palo Alto, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
School For Independent Learners
909 N San Antonio Rd, Los Altos, CA
High School 8 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Charleston Gardens combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Charleston Gardens can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $94,500
Household Income $194,864
Unemployment 2.5%

Income Breakdown

Charleston Gardens Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

Industry Employed
Agriculture & Mining Unlock
Construction Unlock
Manufacturing Unlock
Wholesale & Retail Unlock
Transportation & Warehousing Unlock
Information Unlock
Finance & Insurance Unlock

The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Charleston Gardens, median household incomes average $194,864, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Charleston Gardens, the unemployment rate is just 3%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

Charleston Gardens primarily features charming single-family homes built in the mid-20th century, many showcasing a mix of ranch and traditional architectural styles. The neighborhood is known for its well-maintained properties with spacious yards, tree-lined streets, and a quiet suburban feel. You'll find a blend of original homes alongside some that have been updated or expanded to meet modern tastes.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, Charleston Gardens benefits from convenient access to major transportation routes. It is located near Highway 101, which provides easy north-south travel through the Peninsula and into San Francisco or San Jose. Additionally, Caltrain's Palo Alto station is just a short drive away, offering commuter rail service along the Peninsula Corridor. Local bus lines also serve the area, making it accessible for both drivers and public transit users.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Charleston Gardens residents often participate in various community events coordinated through the Palo Alto neighborhood associations. Popular gatherings include seasonal block parties, neighborhood garage sales, and holiday celebrations such as the annual Fourth of July parade held nearby in Downtown Palo Alto. The community also enjoys access to events at local parks like Rinconada Park, which hosts concerts, farmers markets, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
Unlock to see 82 90 61 30 70 51 84 64
Unlock to see 75 43 36 51 48 76 50 72
Unlock to see 68 71 78 48 59 34 75 58
Charleston Gardens Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe
Unlock to see 49 89 30 36 87 67 50 30
Unlock to see 36 47 40 64 34 68 31 53
Unlock to see 25 56 63 67 70 85 49 73

Other Neighborhoods in Palo Alto, CA