2025 Compare Cities Overview:
San Mateo, CA vs Los Altos, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Los Altos older or younger than people in San Mateo?
- The Median Age in Los Altos is 8.1 years older than in San Mateo.

Are housing costs cheaper in Los Altos or San Mateo?
- Los Altos housing costs are 170.3% more expensive than San Mateo housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Los Altos or San Mateo?
- The average commute for residents of Los Altos is 3.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of San Mateo.

Things to do in San Mateo?
San Mateo, California is a vibrant city located in San Mateo County. From its breathtaking views to its many cultural attractions, San Mateo has something for everyone! Outdoor activities like Coyote Point Recreation Area and Golden Gate National Recreation Area will keep visitors entertained all day long. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like the San Mateo Main Library or the Museum of San Carlos History. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like The Fish Market or Los Primos Mexican Restaurant. With so much to offer, San Mateo is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

Things to do in Los Altos?
Los Altos CA lies within Silicon Valley making this tech mecca one full of opportunity with major employers as well as attractions like Shoreline Amphitheater or even exploring one of over 50 regional parks sprinkled throughout Santa Clara County!

 San Mateo, CALos Altos, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock31,562329,725,481
 Median Income$133,612  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock45.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,378,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time27.77  Unlock26.38
Reviews for San Mateo    12 Reviews

I have lived in San Mateo since 2013. It has seen tremendous growth, lots of new restaurants which have become progressively more high-end though there is ample  More

   |    Reply

I'm a native of California. I have lived in the southern part of the state and the northern part of the state for most of my life. I have spent the last 29 years in  More

   |    Reply

Over 15 years ago

San Mateo has a diverse mix of people, a pleasant climate, a very pleasant downtown park with lots going on, and pretty much whatever you need handy. It's not far to  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of San Mateo

Reviews for Los Altos    2 Reviews

Over 17 years ago

Expensive but worth  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

the quality of life here is very high however the cost of living is also high. extremely high as a matter of fact. I'd like to look at other communities that are less  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Los Altos


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.