A town on a fault line.
City Limits
Portola Valley is a peaceful community that sits on top of the San Andreas Fault, one of the world’s most active earthquake zones. Incorporated in 1964 and named for Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolá, who led the first party of Europeans to explore the San Francisco Peninsula in 1769, the town has maintained a rural ambiance and a good balance between modern development and pastoral quiet.
Portola Valley can generally be divided into seven subdivisions: Central Portola Valley, The Ranch, Corte Madera, Los Trancos/Vista Verde, Woodside Highlands, Westridge, and Blue Oaks. Through the efforts of dedicated residents, the town has also acquired seven significant open spaces within its borders. Learn more
Portola Valley By the Numbers
Median Sale Price: Approximately $4,600,000. While the market typically ranges from $3.9M to $4.6M, the most recent data shows a strong median of $4.6M, reflecting the enduring value of this exclusive and scenic enclave.
Sale-to-List Ratio:The market is highly competitive for limited inventory, with properties frequently selling at or near asking price as buyers prioritize the town’s rare combination of natural beauty and architectural distinction.
Speed of Market: Market activity is steady and brisk; motivated buyers seeking a tranquil, rural-residential lifestyle act decisively when unique properties become available in this sought-after community.
Population: An intimate and private community of approximately 4,325 residents, offering a serene environment that emphasizes open space and a close connection to nature.
Median Age: 60.6 years, reflecting an established demographic of successful professionals and individuals who value the area’s long-term peace, privacy, and prestige.
Median Household Income: Exceptional local wealth with a median household income exceeding the $250,001 reporting ceiling and an estimated average surpassing $460,000.
WHERE TO GO: Chic’s Picks
Windy Hill Open Space Preserve – Windy Hill is named for its distinctive, breezy, grass-covered hilltop, which can be seen from across the peninsula. The 1,335-acre preserve features open grassland ridges and forests of redwood, fir, and oak. This is an ideal spot for kite flyers, but you’ll need a permit for hang gliding, paragliding, and remote control gliding. Learn more
Our Lady of the Wayside Church – This country church in the Spanish Mission style was built in 1912. It is the first fully executed design of architect Timothy Pflueger and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as a California Registered Historical Landmark. Ironically, construction of this church was initiated by a non-denominational club called The Family. Learn more
Portola Valley School – This one-room schoolhouse sits at 775 Portola Road and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Designed in 1909 by LeBaron R. Olive, it is a rare, surviving example of a school in Mission Revival style and currently used for Portola Valley town hall meetings. Learn more
WHERE TO EAT, DRINK & HANG
Parkside Grille – This family owned restaurant is tucked among towering redwoods with stunning views of the town. In addition to its unique setting, their dishes are bold, uncomplicated, and made with fresh local ingredients. The owners are dedicated to providing great service and exquisite food with bold innovation. Learn more
Old Port Lobster Shack – The concept of owner Russell Deutsch, a native of Boston and Portland, Maine, this is a legitimate old-fashioned lobster shack. They even fly in fresh lobsters several times a week, so be prepared for the freshest lobster on the West Coast! Learn more
Rossotti’s Alpine Inn – In 2018, Deke & Lori Hunter, Fred & Stephanie Harman, and Jim Kohlberg bought the iconic and historic Alpine Inn to update, restore, and finally reopen the local treasure. Learn more
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
LOCAL SCHOOLS
FOSTER CITY Library
#GoldCountry
According to the American Community Survey by the U.S. Census Bureau, Portola Valley is the wealthiest town in America based on per-capita income for communities larger than 4,000, and home prices here are also among the highest in the nation. Learn more
#TavernTown
Founded in 1852, Casa De Tableta — now the Alpine Inn — is the second-oldest continually operating tavern in California. While the name may have changed numerous times during its rich history, 167 years later the watering hole continues to attract customers to the banks of Los Trancos Creek, some of whom still arrive on horseback. Learn more
