Home to an array of prestigious employers and one of the top universities in the world, Palo Alto is considered to be the heartbeat of Silicon Valley. It is centrally located between the metropolises of San Francisco and San Jose, giving it a premier setting imbued with vibrant energy, an extremely well-educated population, and highly acclaimed public schools.

Access & Innovation

The city of Palo Alto is over 120 years old, and comprises a heritage rich with history and innovation. Named after a stately 1000-year-old redwood tree, Palo Alto has long been regarded as a birthplace for advancement. It is the site of Stanford University, and it has fostered many high-tech companies and renowned inventors. In addition, the city’s strategic access to freeways, public transit, and three international airports allow it to be a local and global magnet for business and intellectual concerns.

Prestigious Yet Humble

Although Palo Alto is one of the most expensive communities in the country, one of the reasons that residents cherish their city is its prolific understatement. Most visitors would never think that its tree-shaded neighborhoods shelter many of the most prominent businesspeople in America, or that its quiet business parks and charming plazas host some of the most powerful companies on the globe. The low-key yet immaculate residential areas are an eclectic jumble of architectural styles and demographic compositions—and it would not be a surprise to discover a billionaire tech mogul lives just down the block.

Recreation For Everyone

Enjoying the same temperate climate found throughout much of the Bay Area, the city takes great care to protect its open spaces and parks, dedicating nearly one-third of its 26 square miles to open space. The city also showcases a bustling downtown anchored by University Avenue, with quaint boutiques, popular retailers, and restaurants spanning every culture and budget imaginable. Culture abounds, from the many events featuring world-renowned experts at Stanford University, to art galleries and live theater. The shopping at Stanford Mall is world-class and includes luxury brands like Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and Burberry, supplemented by a selection of high-end department stores.

Excellent Education

The Palo Alto Unified School District supplies residents with some of the best schools in the nation. Graduates from local high schools attend the most prestigious colleges and universities in the country, with a much larger-than-average number admitted to neighboring Stanford. Abundant bike paths make it easy for most students to bike to school, giving them a sense of independence that is valued by parents and children alike.

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No city can compare to Palo Alto’s distinguished blend of history, suburban charm, and urban access. The city is every bit as enjoyable a place to live as it is an exciting destination to experience.

Notable Residents—Past and Present

Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple

Dave and James Franco, actor siblings

William Hewlett, co-founder of Hewlett-Packard

Herbert Hoover, 31st President of the United States of America

Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple

Jeremy Lin, NBA player

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla Motors and SpaceX

David Packard, co-founder of Hewlett-Packard

Larry Page, co-founder and CEO of Google

Condoleezza Rice, former US Secretary of State

Steve Young, NFL Hall-of-Famer and former 49ers quarterback

Mark Zuckerberg, co-founder and CEO of Facebook