Laurelwood, San Mateo,CA

For those considering a move to San Mateo, the Laurelwood neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a charming and peaceful residential experience. Known for its well-maintained homes and lush green spaces, Laurelwood is perfect for families and professionals alike who appreciate a quieter atmosphere while still being close to city amenities. The area boasts inviting parks like Laurelwood Park, which features playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it a favorite spot for outdoor activities and weekend gatherings. Additionally, the neighborhood has a strong sense of community, with local events and friendly neighbors contributing to a welcoming environment.

One of the standout features of Laurelwood is its convenient access to shopping and dining options. Just a short drive away, residents can enjoy the bustling Hillsdale Shopping Center, which offers a variety of stores, boutiques, and eateries to suit every taste. For nature lovers, the nearby Coyote Point Recreation Area provides beautiful waterfront views, a marina, and walking paths, perfect for a weekend escape without leaving the city. Families will also appreciate the proximity to highly-rated schools in the San Mateo Union High School District, making it an ideal neighborhood for those prioritizing education.

When it comes to commuting, Laurelwood's location in the southeast of San Mateo means Downtown San Mateo is only about a 10 to 15-minute drive, offering easy access to the city's vibrant downtown area filled with restaurants, coffee shops, theaters, and cultural attractions. Public transportation options are also readily available, connecting residents to neighboring cities and major employment hubs in the Bay Area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing neighborhood vibe or quick access to urban conveniences, Laurelwood strikes a wonderful balance for anyone relocating to San Mateo.

In Laurelwood, 34% 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 34% 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.

Laurelwood 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 3,142 residents, Laurelwood is notably smaller than many other San Mateo 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.

Laurelwood has a population density of 4,095, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other San Mateo 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.

With an average age of 43, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Laurelwood crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Laurelwood, home prices come in around $1,955,113, 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 Laurelwood 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 $3,111, rental rates in Laurelwood 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.

School ratings in Laurelwood 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 Laurelwood 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.