Living in Burlingame Hills, Burlingame, CA
Additionally, an affluent hilltop neighborhood in Burlingame known for quality schools, mature landscaping, and strong family demographics.
About Burlingame Hills in Burlingame
Burlingame Hills represents one of the Peninsula's most established and affluent residential neighborhoods. Home to a median household income exceeding $235,000 and a median home value of $2 million, the neighborhood attracts accomplished professionals and multigenerational families seeking quality schools and strong community bonds. The area balances privacy and convenience: tree-lined streets and spacious lots provide suburban tranquility, while proximity to schools, retail, and employment centers keeps daily logistics manageable for car-oriented residents.
Real Estate Market in Burlingame Hills
| Median home price | $2.0m |
|---|---|
| Year over year change | stable |
| Price per sq ft | $850 to $950 |
| Median rent | $3,501 |
| Typical days on market | 18 to 25 days |
| Buyer competition | Fierce |
| Walk Score | 15 |
| Bike Score | 7 |
Additionally, the Burlingame Hills real estate market reflects the neighborhood's premium positioning and limited supply of family homes in a top-school district. Homes in this neighborhood command prices aligned with regional affluent communities.
Burlingame Hills homes attract multiple bidders, particularly in spring and early summer. Additionally, offers above list price, pre-inspections, and quick closing timelines are standard. Proximity to Hoover Elementary and strong school reputation drive consistent demand.
Who Thrives in Burlingame Hills
Entry-level pricing for Burlingame Hills begins near $1.8m, placing it out of reach for most first-time buyers without substantial equity or family assistance.
Additionally, with 27.8% of residents aged under 18, robust school ratings including Hoover Elementary (92) and Burlingame Intermediate (76.5), and 60.1% married households, Burlingame Hills is purpose-built for family life.
Additionally, owner-occupancy at 80.8% and strong rental demand at $3,501 median monthly rent make Burlingame Hills attractive for long-term investment in a stable, appreciating neighborhood.
Additionally, 13.8% of residents work from home; reliable broadband and quiet cul-de-sacs support focus work, though a car is essential for any in-person commuting or social outings.
Median resident age of 42.9 years and low poverty at 4% create a stable, affluent environment; however, car dependency and limited walkability may challenge those seeking urban retirement amenities.
Property Types in Burlingame Hills
The dominant property type; typically 1.5 to 3 acres with updated or newly renovated interiors, often featuring views.
Less common; located on neighborhood periphery, often lower maintenance than single-family homes.
Additionally, vacant land and older homes regularly scraped for new construction; high builder interest given lot sizes and school district.
Living in Burlingame Hills, Burlingame
Daily life in Burlingame Hills centers on family routines, school pickups, and a quiet suburban rhythm. Residents typically drive to nearby coffee shops like Neal's Coffee Shop or Caffè Roma, grab groceries at Lunardi's or Lucky, and enjoy weekend recreation at Mills Canyon Park or Skyline Park. The neighborhood feels more retreat than destination: mature trees, low traffic, and absence of commercial corridors create an intentional separation from busier parts of Burlingame. Social activity clusters around schools, faith communities, and local sports leagues rather than neighborhood retail strips.
- Yuanbao Jiaozi · 34 min walk
- See's Candies · 34 min walk
- Chipotle · 37 min walk
- Broadway Grill Inc · 37 min walk
- Nothing Bundt Cakes · 38 min walk
- Neal's Coffee Shop · 34 min walk
- Starbucks · 35 min walk
- Caffé Roma · 37 min walk
- il piccolo cafe · 40 min walk
- Mills Canyon Park · 7 min walk
- Cuernavaca Park · 12 min walk
- Hoover Playground · 13 min walk
- Cuernavaca Park Playground · 14 min walk
- Skyline Park · 14 min walk
- Lunardi's · 34 min walk
- Lucky · 37 min walk
- Burlingame Farmer's Market · 39 min walk
Annual events: Burlingame Fourth of July Parade, Burlingame Farmer's Market (seasonal)
Schools Near Burlingame Hills, Burlingame
Additionally, burlingame Hills' reputation rests substantially on its schools, which serve as primary drivers of both residential desirability and home values. The neighborhood's elementary schools rank among the highest-performing in the Bay Area, drawing families from competing neighborhoods.
Elementary Schools
School Score 92 with 92% math and 92% reading proficiency
Proximitii 2026School Score 86.5 with 87% math and 86% reading proficiency
Proximitii 2026School Score 84 with 85% math and 83% reading proficiency
Proximitii 2026School Score 74.5 with 77% math and 72% reading proficiency
Proximitii 2026Middle Schools
School Score 76.5 with 74% math and 79% reading proficiency
Proximitii 2026High Schools
School Score 70.5 with 66% math and 75% reading proficiency
Proximitii 2026Private Schools Nearby
- Mercy High School (9-12) — 15-minute walk
- The Nueva Middle School (KG-12) — 28-minute walk
Feeder pattern: Most Burlingame Hills families send children to Hoover Elementary (rating 92), progressing to Burlingame Intermediate (76.5), then Mills High School (70.5) or private options like Mercy High School.
Source: Proximitii 2026
Commute from Burlingame Hills
Most Burlingame Hills residents rely on personal vehicles, with 62.6% driving alone to work. The neighborhood's location offers quick access to Peninsula employment hubs and modest freeway distances to regional job centers, though a true daily commute from Burlingame Hills typically involves 30 to 45 minutes depending on destination.
Additionally, public transit access is limited; nearest CalTrain station is in downtown Burlingame (2+ miles), and local bus service provides basic connectivity but does not support car-free living.
Neighborhoods Near Burlingame Hills
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Frequently Asked Questions about Burlingame Hills
What is the average home price in Burlingame Hills, Burlingame?
The median home price in Burlingame Hills is approximately $2.0 million, reflecting the neighborhood's position as one of Burlingame's most affluent residential areas. Properties typically range from $1.8 million to $3.2 million for single-family homes, with newer construction or significantly updated homes commanding higher premiums. Additionally, lot sizes and proximity to top-rated schools like Hoover Elementary substantially influence pricing. The neighborhood shows stable values with limited inventory, keeping competitive pressure high.
Is Burlingame Hills a good place to live?
Burlingame Hills suits affluent families and professionals seeking excellent schools, quiet neighborhoods, and strong community stability. Additionally, the neighborhood's 42.9-year median resident age and 60.1% married household rate reflect its family orientation. However, the car-dependent lifestyle (Walk Score 15) and limited urban amenities make it less appealing to those seeking walkable living or younger, more transient communities. For buyers prioritizing schools, property values, and suburban tranquility, Burlingame Hills is an excellent choice.
Which schools serve Burlingame Hills?
Hoover Elementary (rating 92) is the primary elementary school and a major draw for families moving to Burlingame Hills. Most children then progress to Burlingame Intermediate (76.5) and Mills High School (70.5). Additionally, private alternatives include Mercy High School and The Nueva Middle School (a private K-12 option). The neighborhood's reputation for schools is well-earned; Hoover Elementary consistently ranks in the top percentile statewide and is a primary driver of home values in the area.
Is Burlingame Hills safe?
Yes, Burlingame Hills maintains a strong safety record with below-average crime rates compared to Bay Area benchmarks. Additionally, the neighborhood benefits from active resident engagement, an organized neighborhood association, and regular police patrols. Moreover, residents frequently cite security and mutual watchfulness as strengths. Like any affluent neighborhood, petty property crimes (car break-ins, porch thefts) occur but are not prevalent. Most families feel comfortable letting children play outside and report strong community trust.
Who should consider moving to Burlingame Hills?
Burlingame Hills is ideal for affluent families with school-age children, established professionals seeking stable investment, and retirees who prioritize quiet surroundings and community over walkability. The neighborhood suits parents who value Hoover Elementary and other highly-rated schools, families with combined incomes exceeding $200,000, and buyers comfortable requiring a car for all errands. It is less suitable for first-time buyers, those seeking vibrant nightlife or walkable urban living, or remote workers without family obligations.
What is the commute like from Burlingame Hills?
Most residents drive, with average commutes to Palo Alto tech jobs running 25 to 35 minutes. Additionally, SFO Airport is 12 to 18 minutes away, making the neighborhood convenient for frequent travelers. Moreover, public transit is limited; the nearest CalTrain station is downtown Burlingame, requiring a car or shuttle to reach. Residents working from home (13.8% of the neighborhood) benefit from quiet, focus-friendly surroundings. The car-dependent lifestyle is a trade-off: suburban tranquility and schools come at the cost of transit convenience.
Where this Burlingame Hills data comes from
Numbers throughout this guide come from public, authoritative sources. Additionally, walk and transit scores come from Walk Score, neighborhood boundaries and POI data from OpenStreetMap and Proximitii, and parent-city demographics from the U.S. Census Bureau.
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