California’s Most Expensive Place to Live is a Small but Ultra-wealthy Silicon Valley Town

California is known for its stunning coastline, booming tech industry, and sky-high real estate prices. But among the many affluent neighborhoods scattered across the Golden State, one has recently been named the most expensive place to live. According to recent real estate data, Atherton, a small town in the heart of Silicon Valley, holds the title of California’s priciest residential area.

Where is Atherton?

Nestled in San Mateo County, Atherton is located just south of San Francisco and near some of the most powerful tech hubs in the world, including Palo Alto and Menlo Park. The town is home to tech executives, venture capitalists, and business magnates who enjoy the exclusivity and luxury that Atherton offers. Its tree-lined streets, massive estates, and private ambiance have made it a prime location for the ultra-wealthy.

Skyrocketing Home Prices

Atherton has consistently topped lists of the most expensive zip codes in the United States, and in 2024, the average home price in the area surpasses $7 million. In some cases, luxurious estates in the neighborhood can easily exceed $30 million. The high price tags are driven by several key factors:

• Proximity to Silicon Valley: With major companies like Google, Facebook (Meta), and Apple nearby, Atherton has become a haven for high-earning professionals.
• Limited Housing Supply: The town has strict zoning laws, allowing only single-family homes and no commercial developments, keeping real estate inventory scarce.
• Prestige and Exclusivity: The area’s reputation for wealth and privacy attracts high-profile buyers.
• High Demand for Luxury Amenities: Many homes feature sprawling estates, high-tech security, resort-style pools, private gyms, and even home theaters.

Who Lives in Atherton?

Atherton has long been a preferred destination for celebrities, CEOs, and industry leaders. Some notable past and present residents include:

• Sheryl Sandberg (former COO of Meta)
• Eric Schmidt (former CEO of Google)
• Stephen Curry (NBA star, previously owned a home in Atherton)
• Marc Andreessen (venture capitalist)

With such a concentration of wealth, the neighborhood offers a level of privacy and security that appeals to high-net-worth individuals.

Cost of Living Beyond Real Estate

Living in Atherton is not just about expensive homes—it extends to every aspect of life. Here’s what residents can expect:

• Property Taxes: With multi-million-dollar homes, property tax bills can easily exceed $100,000 per year.
• Private Schools: Many families in Atherton send their children to prestigious private schools, such as Menlo School, Sacred Heart Prep, and Castilleja School, where tuition can reach $50,000 per year.
• Luxury Lifestyles: Fine dining, exclusive golf clubs, and private jet travel are common among Atherton’s elite residents.

How Does Atherton Compare to Other Expensive Areas in California?

While Atherton is the most expensive neighborhood in the state, several other high-end communities come close:

• Beverly Hills: Known for its celebrity homes and luxury shopping, Beverly Hills boasts an average home price of around $5 million.
• Malibu: Beachfront properties in Malibu easily sell for $10 million or more, especially in exclusive areas like Carbon Beach.
• San Francisco’s Pacific Heights: Home to tech moguls and business tycoons, Pacific Heights features homes that often exceed $6 million.
• Palo Alto: Another Silicon Valley hotspot, Palo Alto’s housing market remains competitive, with average home prices above $3.5 million.

Despite these contenders, Atherton’s combination of seclusion, wealth, and limited housing supply keeps it at the top.

Is It Worth the Price?

For those who can afford it, Atherton offers an unparalleled standard of living. The town has no commercial businesses, meaning no bustling shopping centers or crowded streets—just peace, privacy, and pristine surroundings. However, the high price tag means it remains out of reach for the average Californian.

For homebuyers seeking a similar lifestyle at a slightly lower cost, other affluent areas like Los Altos Hills, Woodside, and Hillsborough may offer attractive alternatives.

Conclusion

Atherton’s reputation as California’s most expensive place to live is well-earned. With astronomical home prices, a roster of elite residents, and unmatched exclusivity, it remains a dream destination for the wealthiest individuals. While the cost of living is steep, for those who can afford it, the privacy, luxury, and proximity to Silicon Valley make it an unparalleled place to call home.

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