Los Altos

One of the brightest gems in Santa Clarita Count

Welcome to Los Altos

Vibrant and family-oriented, Los Altos is an affluent community on the edge of Silicon Valley
 
Family-oriented and full of life, Los Altos is one of the brightest gems in Santa Clarita County. This affluent community offers easy access to Silicon Valley and is home to many tech pioneers and high-powered businesspeople. It's also a hot residential area for families and retirees, with many eager to experience the vibrant California lifestyle that it offers.
 
Enjoy a wide variety of fine restaurants and boutiques in Los Altos, from top-rated eateries to casual diners. The city's convenient location means that residents and guests can get anywhere they need to go in no time flat, despite the fact that Los Altos is a major hub for commuters. Luxury, community spirit, and residential amenities – Los Altos boasts it all.

What to Love

  • Los Altos is known for its many vibrant restaurants.
  • Lots of historical sites and landmarks that will appeal to history buffs.
  • A center for technological advances and updates with easy access to Silicon Valley.

Local Lifestyle

Los Altos' fast-paced lifestyle means that there's always something going on, from festivals and parades to exclusive art gallery openings and business-centered events. No matter what your interests are, you will find something to enjoy in Los Altos, which has earned a reputation as a major cultural hub. Los Altos is family-friendly as well, with many residential amenities such as impeccably-maintained parks and beautifully-landscaped streets and neighborhoods.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

California-style fare is waiting for you to enjoy at Cetrella. This refined eatery offers a fabulous menu full of upscale favorites in a setting that invites guests to relax and enjoy some handmade pasta and perfectly-seasoned steak. Los Altos Grill is another hotspot. This eatery serves up new American favorites, including ribs, rotisserie chicken, and pan-roasted salmon. The atmosphere is low-key but inviting, the perfect setting for your next night out or a romantic date.
Guests who love Chinese food will find their perfect plate at Chef Chu's. An Asian-inspired eatery with an expansive menu, Chef Chu's has become a favorite with Los Altos residents as well as tourists visiting the area for the first time. If you want to cook some exceptional meals at home, head to the Los Altos Farmers’ Market, which runs seasonally from May through September. At this community event, visitors can pick up fresh fruits and vegetables and various handmade artisanal goods and items.

Things to Do

Los Altos' mild climate and beautiful weather mean that many outdoor events and festivals occur throughout the year. The Los Altos Art and Wine Festival, which is hosted in downtown Los Altos every year, invites guests to taste delicious small bites and exceptional local wine from vendors, chefs, and makers. Los Altos is home to many beautiful parks, all carefully maintained and curated by the Los Altos Parks and Recreation Department.
 
The tree-lined streets are perfect for cyclists, runners, and anyone who wants to get out for a low-key walk. The Los Altos History Museum attracts many visitors, with a lot of exhibits that showcase the history and culture of California, while Hidden Villa Farm provides programs, tours, and services that will get guests of all ages up close and personal with nature. Families with young children will love Shoup Park, a 4-acre park that features several playgrounds, rentable venues, and lots of space to enjoy picnics or playdates. With so much to see, do, and explore, it's a wonder that Los Altos continues to grow every year, welcoming visitors and new residents. 

Schools

The Los Altos community is served by the Los Altos School District. Notable schools in the area include:
 

Los Altos Real Estate: FAQ for Families and First-Time Buyers and Sellers

For Families:

Q1: Why is Los Altos a great place for families?

A: Los Altos offers a safe and welcoming community with top-rated schools, numerous parks, and family-friendly events throughout the year. The neighborhoods are quiet and well-maintained, making it an ideal place to raise children.

Q2: What family activities are available in Los Altos?

A: Los Altos has a variety of family-friendly activities, including visits to the Los Altos History Museum, exploring the Redwood Grove Nature Preserve, and enjoying the vibrant downtown area with its shops and restaurants. The community center also offers various classes and activities for children of all ages.

Q3: Are there good schools in Los Altos?

A: Yes, Los Altos is known for its excellent schools, both public and private. The Los Altos School District and Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District have some of the highest-rated schools in the state, providing quality education for children from kindergarten through high school.

Q4: What are the neighborhood options for families in Los Altos?

A: Los Altos has several family-friendly neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. North Los Altos offers proximity to downtown and excellent schools, while South Los Altos is known for its larger lots and more suburban feel. Each neighborhood has its parks and amenities, ensuring families can find the perfect fit.

For First-Time Buyers:

Q1: What should first-time buyers know about the Los Altos real estate market?

A: The Los Altos real estate market is competitive, with high demand and limited inventory driving up prices. First-time buyers should be prepared for a fast-paced market and consider working with an experienced real estate agent to navigate the process.

Q2: How can I get started with buying my first home in Los Altos?

A: Start by getting pre-approved for a mortgage to understand your budget. Then, research neighborhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle and needs. Partnering with a local real estate agent who knows the Los Altos market can provide valuable insights and help you find the right home.

Q3: What are the common challenges first-time buyers face in Los Altos?

A: The biggest challenges are often the high cost of homes and the competitive nature of the market. First-time buyers may also find the bidding wars and fast-moving transactions stressful. Being prepared and working with a knowledgeable agent can help mitigate these challenges.

Q4: Are there any special programs for first-time buyers in Los Altos?

A: While Los Altos doesn't have specific local programs, first-time buyers can take advantage of state and federal programs, such as FHA loans, which offer lower down payment options. Additionally, some lenders offer first-time buyer programs with favorable terms.

For Sellers:

Q1: How can I prepare my home for sale in Los Altos?

A: Start by decluttering and depersonalizing your home to make it appealing to potential buyers. Consider making minor repairs and improvements, such as fresh paint and landscaping. Staging your home can also help showcase its best features.

Q2: What is the best time to sell a home in Los Altos?

A: The best time to sell a home in Los Altos is typically during the spring and summer months when the weather is favorable, and families are looking to move before the new school year. However, the local market remains strong year-round, so good opportunities exist in other seasons as well.

Q3: How can I determine the right price for my home?

A: Pricing your home correctly is crucial for a successful sale. Work with a real estate agent to conduct a comparative market analysis (CMA) to see what similar homes in your area have sold for. Consider the current market conditions and any unique features your home may have.

Q4: What should I expect during the selling process?

A: The selling process involves several steps, including listing your home, marketing it to potential buyers, hosting open houses and showings, and negotiating offers. Once you accept an offer, the closing process begins, which includes inspections, appraisals, and finalizing the sale. Your real estate agent will guide you through each step to ensure a smooth transaction.

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Overview for Los Altos, CA

31,562 people live in Los Altos, where the median age is 45.8 and the average individual income is $124,369. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

31,562

Total Population

45.8 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$124,369

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for Los Altos, CA

Los Altos has 10,805 households, with an average household size of 2.9. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Los Altos do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 31,562 people call Los Altos home. The population density is 4,826.14 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

31,562

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

45.8

Median Age

50.33 / 49.67%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
10,805

Total Households

2.9

Average Household Size

$124,369

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Los Altos, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Los Altos. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

Work With Stephanie

As a resident and community leader for many years, she is deeply connected to people and organizations that contribute to the vibrance of the area she calls home.