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Professorville, Palo Alto,CA

Neighborhood Data
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For those considering a move to Palo Alto, the neighborhood of Professorville offers a charming blend of history and community spirit that’s hard to beat. Nestled in the north west part of the city, this area is well-known for its beautifully preserved early 20th-century homes and tree-lined streets, giving it a distinctly cozy, village-like feel. It’s a favorite among families and academics alike, partly due to its proximity to Stanford University, which casts a wonderful intellectual and cultural vibe over the neighborhood. Walking through Professorville, you’ll notice the carefully maintained Craftsman-style houses and a strong sense of neighborhood pride, making it a welcoming place for newcomers looking for a friendly community atmosphere.

One of the standout attractions of Professorville is its quiet, residential charm paired with easy access to local parks and community spaces. The neighborhood boasts several small parks and green spaces perfect for morning jogs, dog walks, or weekend picnics, contributing to the active, outdoor lifestyle many residents enjoy. Additionally, the nearby Stanford University campus offers cultural events, lectures, and beautiful gardens that residents can frequently take advantage of. While the area itself is primarily residential, its location in the north west of Palo Alto means you’re just a short drive or bike ride away from the bustling Downtown Palo Alto, where shops, restaurants, and entertainment options abound.

Living in Professorville means you’re never far from the vibrant pulse of Downtown Palo Alto, which is conveniently located southeast of the neighborhood and just a quick 5 to 10-minute drive away. This proximity allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds—peaceful residential streets and easy access to the dynamic dining, shopping, and nightlife scene downtown. Whether you’re grabbing coffee at one of the local cafés, attending a farmers market, or enjoying a night out, the neighborhood’s location makes it simple to balance relaxation with excitement. For anyone relocating to Palo Alto, Professorville offers a unique combination of historic charm, community warmth, and urban convenience that makes settling in both enjoyable and effortless.

Community Snapshot

Population 791
Density (People/sqml.) 9,222
Median Age 46.4
Married Couples
53%
53% of the population of Professorville aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
29%
29% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Professorville, 29% 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 29% 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

Professorville neighborhood age breakdown chart

Professorville 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 791 residents, Professorville 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.

Boasting a population density of 9,222, Professorville is more densely populated than many other Palo Alto neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

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 Professorville

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Types of Crime

Professorville neighborhood age breakdown chart

Professorville Crime Map

The Professorville crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing

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Home Price $2,000,001
Median Rent $2,488
People/Household 2.5

Home Price Breakdown

Professorville neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 41% Own 59%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 64% After 2010 36%

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 Professorville, home prices come in around $2,000,001, 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 Professorville 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 $2,488, rental rates in Professorville 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.
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Douce France
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Hewlett Packard's Garage
Attraction
min.
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Palo Alto History Museum
Museum
min.
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Food & Drink

Peninsula Creamery
Fast Food
min.
min.
Tin Pot Creamery
Sweets
min.
min.

Groceries

SOS Fine Foods
Grocery Store
min.
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Trader Joe's
Grocery Store
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Parks

Playground
Playground
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Rocket Salon
Hairdresser
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Addison Antiques
Furniture
min.
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Embarcadero Road & Waverley Street
Bus Stop
min.
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Embarcadero Road & Waverley Street
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

LabCorp
Clinic
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CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
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Health Care

Doctor Stephen Los
Dentist
min.
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Heritage Park Dental
Dentist
min.
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Safety

Palo Alto Police Department
Police
min.
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Palo Alto Fire Station 3
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Addison Elementary
650 Addison Ave., Palo Alto, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
David Starr Jordan Middle
750 N. California Ave., Palo Alto, CA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Stanford Online High School
220 Panama St, Stanford, CA
High School 7 - 12 School Score
Tru School
1295 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Walter Hays Elementary
1525 Midfield Rd., Palo Alto, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
East Palo Alto Academy
1050 Myrtle St., East Palo Alto, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Palo Alto High
50 Embarcadero Rd., Palo Alto, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Professorville. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Professorville offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $145,444
Household Income $209,612
Unemployment 2.1%

Income Breakdown

Professorville Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Professorville, median household incomes average $209,612, 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 Professorville, the unemployment rate is just 2%, 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?

Professorville is known for its charming early 20th-century homes, predominantly Craftsman-style bungalows and California shingle-style houses. Many residences feature beautiful woodwork, inviting front porches, and mature trees lining the streets. The neighborhood has preserved much of its historic character, with many homes dating back to the 1900s, originally built for Stanford University professors.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Professorville is rich in history with several notable landmarks. One of the most prominent is the Professorville Historic District itself, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The neighborhood is characterized by its well-preserved architecture and tree-lined streets. Additionally, the nearby Stanford University campus, including the iconic Hoover Tower and Cantor Arts Center, adds to the area's cultural significance.

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

Professorville hosts several community events that foster neighborhood spirit. The Professorville Neighborhood Association organizes seasonal gatherings such as block parties and garden tours. Additionally, residents often participate in Palo Alto’s larger events like the annual Palo Alto Festival of the Arts and the Farmers' Market at the nearby Downtown Palo Alto, which provide opportunities for socializing and supporting local artisans and farmers.

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