What Is San Mateo, CA Known For?
San Mateo is located approximately 20 miles from San Francisco, the nearest metro area. The city is distinguished for its blend of suburban and urban lifestyles, tech proximity, and diverse food culture. This city captures the essence of Bay Area living—perfect for families, tech professionals, and retirees.
San Mateo leans liberal and is characterized by a patchwork of diverse ethnicities. From Asian to Hispanic communities, the area is quite inclusive. There's also a notable presence of LGBTQ+ individuals, adding to the vibrant fabric of local life.
Singles relish the abundant social spots and late-night eateries. Retirees can take advantage of nearby beaches and parks. Tech professionals appreciate the convenient commute to innovation hubs. Families benefit from well-regarded schools and countless recreational activities. Students find it an area that balances academic life with a rich cultural milieu.
Highlights
Pros and Cons
The Pros of living in San Mateo, CA, include near innovation hotspots, educational options, recreational activities, and more. While some Cons are around affordability, traffic woes, and limited nightlife.
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Safety and Crime
San Mateo, CA is ranked 159th out of the top 500 most populated cities in the US for highest overall safety, is ranked 131st on safety from violent crime, and 270th on safety from property crime.
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Cost of Living
Compared to the rest of the US, the cost of living in San Mateo, CA is 65% higher than the national average.
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Discretionary Income
A gross annual salary of $80,000 in San Mateo, CA leaves -$1,945 of “money in the pocket” per month on average.
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Climate and Weather
The average daily temperature in San Mateo, CA in January is 54°F and 66°F in July. Compared to the rest of the 333 most populated cities in the US, this city is on average +11°F warmer in January and is on average -13°F cooler in July.
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Politics and Voting
San Mateo, CA voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential election, with 77.9% of the votes counted going to this party.
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The assessments presented on this website, including those related to crime, safety, cost of living, and other location characteristics (e.g., states, cities, towns, villages, neighborhoods, areas, landmarks), are based on various sources and our internal research methods. These assessments are not guaranteed to be accurate or complete and should not be used as the sole basis for making any decisions.