Blog > Discovering the Charm of Los Gatos
Los Gatos is a charming town located in Santa Clara County, California, at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains. It is known for its beautiful scenery, vibrant downtown area, and strong sense of community. Los Gatos is home to around 30,000 residents and covers an area of approximately 11 square miles.
The town of Los Gatos is located approximately 60 miles south of San Francisco and 15 miles west of San Jose. It is easily accessible by car via Highway 17, and is also served by several public transportation options, including the VTA light rail and bus system.
Los Gatos is a popular destination for visitors, with a range of attractions and activities to suit different interests and tastes. The downtown area of Los Gatos is home to a variety of shops, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, as well as several historical landmarks and museums. The town also offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating.
Los Gatos is also known for its strong sense of community, with several annual events and festivals that bring residents together to celebrate and enjoy the town’s culture and heritage. These events include the Los Gatos Art & Wine Festival, the Music in the Park concert series, and the Los Gatos Christmas Parade.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains, immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant culture and arts scene, or simply relax and unwind in a charming and friendly town, Los Gatos has something to offer.
Los Gatos History
Los Gatos is a town located in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains in Santa Clara County, California. The town has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century, and has played an important role in the development of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Early History:
The first people to inhabit the Los Gatos area were the Ohlone people, who lived in the region for thousands of years before the arrival of Spanish explorers in the late 1700s. The Spanish established a mission in nearby Santa Clara, and the area that is now Los Gatos became part of the Rancho Rinconada del Arroyo de Los Gatos land grant in the early 19th century.
Gold Rush and Early Development:
The California Gold Rush brought an influx of settlers to the Los Gatos area in the mid-19th century, and the town began to grow rapidly. The first commercial establishment in Los Gatos was a hotel and tavern that was built in 1849, and the town’s first schoolhouse was built in 1851.
In 1869, the San Francisco and San Jose Railroad was extended to Los Gatos, which helped to further stimulate growth and development in the town. The railroad made it easier for people to travel to and from Los Gatos, and it also helped to facilitate the transportation of goods and products.
By the turn of the 20th century, Los Gatos had become a popular destination for tourists and wealthy residents of San Francisco and other nearby cities. Many elegant homes and estates were built in Los Gatos during this time, and the town became known for its beautiful gardens and scenic vistas.
Modern Development
In the years following World War II, Los Gatos continued to grow and develop, as more people moved to the area to take advantage of its beautiful scenery and mild climate. The town experienced a building boom in the 1950s and 1960s, with many new homes and subdivisions being built to accommodate the growing population.
In the 1970s, Los Gatos began to attract high-tech companies due to its location in the heart of Silicon Valley and its close proximity to major technology hubs like San Jose and Palo Alto. Some of the earliest tech companies to move into the area included companies like General Magic and Netflix, which were founded in Los Gatos in the mid-1990s.
Today, Los Gatos is home to a wide range of technology companies, from startups to established corporations. Many of these companies are focused on cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics, and they are driving innovation and growth in the tech industry.
One of the most notable tech companies in Los Gatos is Netflix, which has its headquarters in the town. The company was founded in 1997 as a DVD-by-mail service, and has since grown to become a global leader in streaming entertainment, producing original content like “Stranger Things”, “The Crown”, and “Narcos”. The company’s success has helped to put Los Gatos on the map as a major player in the technology industry.
Other notable tech companies in Los Gatos include Roku, a streaming TV platform; Cryptic Studios, a video game development company; and Xilinx, a semiconductor company. These companies and others like them have helped to establish Los Gatos as a major technology hub in Silicon Valley, and have contributed to the town’s thriving economy and high quality of life.
Overall, the modern history of technology in Los Gatos is closely intertwined with the growth and development of Silicon Valley. With its highly educated workforce, supportive business environment, and innovative spirit, Los Gatos is well-positioned to continue to attract and grow technology companies in the years to come.
Los Gatos Real Estate Market
The Los Gatos town’s real estate market is a significant attraction, offering a range of homes and properties to suit different tastes and budgets.
Market Overview
The Los Gatos real estate market is considered to be a seller’s market, with high demand and low inventory leading to rising home prices. As of September 2022, the median home value in Los Gatos was $2.9 million, an increase of 15.8% from the previous year. The average price per square foot for homes in Los Gatos was $1,046, an increase of 12.6% from the previous year.
Housing Options in Los Gatos
Los Gatos offers a variety of housing options to suit different needs and lifestyles. Single-family homes are the most common type of housing in Los Gatos, ranging from historic Victorian and Craftsman-style homes to modern, custom-built estates. The town also offers a number of townhomes and condominiums, offering low-maintenance living options for those who prefer not to maintain a yard or garden. Here are some of the housing options in Los Gatos.
Single-family homes – Single-family homes are the most common type of housing in Los Gatos, ranging from historic Victorian and Craftsman-style homes to modern, custom-built estates. Many homes in Los Gatos feature large lots and spacious yards, making them ideal for families or those who enjoy outdoor living. Single-family homes in Los Gatos can range in price from 2 million on up, depending on the size, location, and amenities.
Townhomes – Los Gatos also offers a number of townhomes, which are typically two or three-story units that share walls with neighboring homes. Townhomes in Los Gatos are often newer construction and offer a low-maintenance living option for those who prefer not to maintain a yard or garden. Prices for townhomes in Los Gatos can range from the mid-six figures to over a million dollars.
Condominiums – Condominiums are another popular housing option in Los Gatos, offering a low-maintenance living option for those who prefer not to maintain a yard or garden. Condominiums in Los Gatos range from older, more affordable units to newer, luxury units with high-end finishes and amenities. Prices for condominiums in Los Gatos can range from the mid-five figures to over a million dollars.
Apartments – Los Gatos offers a limited number of apartments, which are typically located in the downtown area or in larger multi-family complexes. Prices for apartments in Los Gatos vary widely depending on the size, location, and amenities.
Senior living communities – Los Gatos also offers a number of senior living communities, which provide housing options for older adults who are looking for an active and supportive community. These communities offer a range of housing options, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes.
Overall, Los Gatos offers a range of housing options to suit different needs and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a historic Victorian home or a low-maintenance townhome or condominium, there’s a housing option in Los Gatos to suit your tastes and budget. Additionally, many of the homes and properties in Los Gatos offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a beautiful and desirable place to call home.
Los Gatos Neighborhoods
Los Gatos is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. The neighborhoods with the most expensive homes are typically in the hillsides, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Other popular neighborhoods include Almond Grove, a historic area known for its tree-lined streets and Victorian homes, and Glen Ridge, an upscale neighborhood with large, custom-built homes.
Almond Grove – This historic neighborhood is located in the heart of downtown Los Gatos and is known for its tree-lined streets and Victorian homes. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the town, with many homes dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Belgatos – This neighborhood is located in the hillsides of Los Gatos and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is known for its large, custom-built homes and spacious lots.
Blossom Manor – This family-friendly neighborhood is located in the southern part of Los Gatos and is known for its excellent schools and community events. It offers a mix of ranch-style and traditional-style homes, as well as some new construction.
Broadway – This neighborhood is located near the center of Los Gatos and is known for its convenient location and walkability. It offers a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums.
Downtown – This bustling neighborhood is the heart of Los Gatos and offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. It is known for its charming streetscape, boutique shops, and award-winning restaurants.
Glen Ridge – This upscale neighborhood is located in the hillsides of Los Gatos and offers some of the most expensive homes in the town. It is known for its large, custom-built homes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Kennedy – This family-friendly neighborhood is located in the northern part of Los Gatos and is known for its excellent schools and community events. It offers a mix of ranch-style and traditional-style homes, as well as some new construction.
Los Gatos Estates – This exclusive neighborhood is located in the hillsides of Los Gatos and offers some of the most expensive homes in the town. It is known for its large, custom-built homes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Montalvo – This neighborhood is located in the hillsides of Los Gatos and is known for its large, custom-built homes and spacious lots. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Surrey Farm – This family-friendly neighborhood is located in the northern part of Los Gatos and is known for its excellent schools and community events. It offers a mix of ranch-style and traditional-style homes, as well as some new construction.
Rinconada Hills – This gated community is located in the eastern part of Los Gatos and offers a mix of townhomes and single-family homes. It is known for its beautiful landscaping, walking trails, and recreational facilities, including tennis courts and a swimming pool.
Shannon – This family-friendly neighborhood is located in the northern part of Los Gatos and is known for its excellent schools and community events. It offers a mix of ranch-style and traditional-style homes, as well as some new construction.
Sorellas – This upscale neighborhood is located in the hillsides of Los Gatos and offers some of the most expensive homes in the town. It is known for its large, custom-built homes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Vista del Monte – This neighborhood is located in the southern part of Los Gatos and is known for its beautiful homes and large lots. It offers a mix of ranch-style and traditional-style homes, as well as some new construction.
Wood Road – This family-friendly neighborhood is located in the eastern part of Los Gatos and is known for its excellent schools and community events. It offers a mix of ranch-style and traditional-style homes, as well as some new construction.
Los Gatos offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Whether you’re looking for a gated community with luxury amenities or a family-friendly neighborhood with excellent schools, Los Gatos has something to offer.
Market Trends in Los Gatos
The Los Gatos real estate market has experienced significant growth in recent years, with home prices rising steadily year over year. Despite the pandemic, the market has remained strong, with high demand from buyers looking to take advantage of low interest rates and the town’s attractive lifestyle.
One of the main factors driving demand in the Los Gatos real estate market is the town’s excellent schools, which are consistently ranked among the top schools in the state. This has led to increased demand for homes in the town, particularly in neighborhoods with top-rated schools.
Another factor contributing to the growth of the Los Gatos real estate market is the town’s location. Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Los Gatos offers easy access to employment opportunities and cultural attractions in the region. Additionally, the town’s beautiful natural surroundings, including nearby mountains and parks, make it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.
Overall, the Los Gatos real estate market is a competitive and fast-moving market, driven by high demand and low inventory. For buyers, it’s essential to work with a knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent to navigate the market and find the perfect home. Despite the challenges, the Los Gatos real estate market offers a wealth of opportunities for buyers looking for a beautiful and desirable place to call home.
Los Gatos Schools
Los Gatos is a vibrant community located in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains in Santa Clara County, California. One of the biggest draws of this charming town is its excellent school system, which offers both public and private options for families with children of all ages.
Los Gatos Public Schools
The Los Gatos Union School District (LGUSD) serves students in grades K-8 and includes four elementary schools and one middle school. Each school is known for its strong academic programs and dedicated faculty and staff.
The elementary schools in the LGUSD are:
- Daves Avenue Elementary School – known for its rigorous academic programs and emphasis on character education
- Blossom Hill Elementary School – known for its strong reading and writing programs and its welcoming, inclusive environment
- Lexington Elementary School – known for its STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) programs and innovative teaching methods
- Van Meter Elementary School – known for its focus on social-emotional learning and its supportive community of students, families, and staff
The middle school in the LGUSD is Fisher Middle School, which is known for its comprehensive academic programs, strong athletics programs, and dedicated teachers and staff.
In addition to the LGUSD, Los Gatos is also home to the Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District (LGSUHSD), which serves students in grades 9-12. The district includes Los Gatos High School and Saratoga High School, both of which are known for their rigorous academic programs, strong athletics programs, and supportive communities.
Private Schools in Los Gatos
Los Gatos is also home to a number of excellent private schools, offering families even more options when it comes to choosing the right educational environment for their children.
Some of the private schools in Los Gatos include:
Hillbrook School – a private, independent school serving students in grades K-8. Hillbrook is known for its innovative approach to education, which includes project-based learning and a focus on social-emotional development.
Los Gatos Christian School – a private, Christian school serving students in grades K-8. The school offers a rigorous academic program, a focus on character development, and a welcoming, supportive community.
Mulberry School – a private, independent school serving students in preschool through 8th grade. Mulberry is known for its progressive approach to education, which includes hands-on learning, project-based curriculum, and a focus on global citizenship.
Santa Cruz Catholic School is a private, Catholic school located in downtown Los Gatos. The school serves students from preschool through 8th grade and is known for its strong academic programs, supportive community, and commitment to Catholic values..
Yavneh Day School – Is a private, Jewish school located in Los Gatos. The school serves students from preschool through 8th grade and is known for its strong academic programs, commitment to Jewish values, and innovative approach to education.
Overall, Los Gatos offers a wide range of excellent educational options for families with children of all ages. From top-rated public schools to innovative private schools, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and dynamic community.
Events and Activities in Los Gatos
Stroll through the charming downtown area – The downtown area of Los Gatos is filled with unique shops, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening browsing and exploring.
Visit Vasona Lake County Park – This beautiful park offers a range of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. It’s a great place to spend a day in nature and take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and lake.
Explore the Los Gatos Creek Trail – This scenic trail runs for 9.7 miles from Lexington Reservoir to Meridian Avenue in San Jose, passing through Los Gatos along the way. It’s a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking.
Take a wine tasting tour – Los Gatos is home to several wineries and tasting rooms, offering visitors the chance to sample some of the best local wines.
Visit the Forbes Mill Museum – This historic museum is housed in a restored flour mill and showcases the history of Los Gatos and the surrounding area. It’s a fascinating look into the town’s past.
Attend a concert or show at the Mountain Winery – The Mountain Winery is a beautiful outdoor venue that hosts concerts and shows throughout the year. It’s a great place to enjoy music and entertainment while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Take a cooking class – Los Gatos is home to several cooking schools and classes, offering visitors the chance to learn new culinary skills and techniques.
Visit the Art Museum of Los Gatos – This museum showcases the work of local artists and hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year. It’s a great place to see some of the best art in the area.
Take a hot air balloon ride – Los Gatos is located in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains, and a hot air balloon ride is a great way to see the area from above. Several companies offer rides that depart from the nearby town of Morgan Hill.
Explore the Montalvo Arts Center – This beautiful estate features a mansion, gardens, and several performance venues. It hosts a range of events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibitions, and theater performances.
Take a yoga or fitness class – Los Gatos is home to several yoga and fitness studios, offering a range of classes and programs to suit different levels and interests.
Visit the New Museum Los Gatos (NUMU) – This museum showcases the history and culture of the Santa Clara Valley, with a focus on innovation and creativity. It hosts a range of exhibitions, events, and programs throughout the year.
Go on a hiking or biking adventure – Los Gatos is surrounded by beautiful parks and trails, making it a great place to go hiking, mountain biking, or trail running. Some popular trails in the area include the Los Gatos Creek Trail, the Lexington Reservoir Trail, and the Castle Rock State Park Trail.
Los Gatos is a popular destination for visitors and residents alike, with its beautiful scenery, rich cultural heritage, and thriving economy. One of the biggest draws of Los Gatos is its diverse range of events and activities that take place throughout the year.
For those looking for fresh, locally grown produce and artisanal foods, the Los Gatos Farmers Market is held every Sunday and is a favorite among locals and visitors. The market also offers handmade crafts and unique souvenirs. Music lovers can enjoy the Music in the Park series, a free summer concert series held on Sunday afternoons in July and August at the outdoor amphitheater in Oak Meadow Park. The concerts feature a wide range of musical styles and performers, from jazz and blues to rock and roll. The Shakespeare Festival, held annually in August, is a must-see event for theater lovers. Live performances of classic plays by Shakespeare take place at the outdoor stage in Oak Meadow Park, providing a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Los Gatos’ parks and gardens while experiencing some of the greatest works of English literature. In September, the Los Gatos Art and Wine Festival takes place, drawing crowds from near and far. This two-day event features wine tastings, food, live music, and a juried art show featuring works by over 150 artists. As the holiday season approaches, the town transforms into a festive wonderland. The annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place in early December in downtown Los Gatos, featuring holiday music, hot cocoa, and the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree. Holiday carriage rides are also offered throughout December, providing a unique and festive way to experience the town’s holiday decorations.
Other events throughout the year include the Halloween Dog Parade, the Greek Festival, the Fourth of July Celebration, the Screen on the Green movie series, and the Los Gatos Creek Trail Run.
Overall, Los Gatos offers a wide range of events and activities throughout the year, appealing to a variety of interests and providing opportunities to enjoy the town’s unique culture and natural beauty. Here are some of the most popular events during the year:
Los Gatos Farmers Market
The Los Gatos Farmers Market is a weekly event that takes place every Sunday from 9am-1pm. It features fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts.
Los Gatos Music in the Park
This is a series of free concerts that take place on Sunday afternoons in July and August at the outdoor amphitheater in Los Gatos’ Oak Meadow Park.
Los Gatos Shakespeare Festival
This annual festival takes place in August and features live performances of classic Shakespeare plays at the outdoor stage in Oak Meadow Park.
Los Gatos Art and Wine Festival
This two-day festival takes place every September and features wine tastings, food, live music, and a juried art show featuring works by over 150 artists.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place in downtown Los Gatos in early December. The event features holiday music, hot cocoa, and the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree.
Holiday Carriage Rides
Throughout December, horse-drawn carriages take visitors on tours of downtown Los Gatos, offering a unique and festive way to experience the town’s holiday decorations.
Jazz on the Plazz
Jazz on the Plazz is a summer concert series that takes place on Wednesday evenings in August at the Los Gatos Town Plaza. The concerts feature world-renowned jazz artists and are free and open to the public.
Screen on the Green
Screen on the Green is a summer movie series that takes place on Friday evenings in August at the Los Gatos Civic Center Lawn. The event features family-friendly films and is free and open to the public.
The Plein Air Art Show is an annual event that takes place in May and showcases the work of local artists who specialize in outdoor painting. The event is held at the Los Gatos Art Museum and features works in a variety of styles and mediums.
Halloween Dog Parade
The annual Halloween Dog Parade takes place in downtown Los Gatos on Halloween day. The parade features dogs of all shapes and sizes dressed up in creative and fun costumes, and is a favorite event among locals and visitors alike.
Greek Festival
The Greek Festival is a two-day event that takes place in September and celebrates Greek culture with traditional food, music, and dance performances. The festival is held at the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Los Gatos.
Fourth of July Celebration
The Fourth of July Celebration is an annual event that features a parade, a street fair, and a fireworks show. The parade and street fair take place in downtown Los Gatos, while the fireworks show is held at La Rinconada Country Club.
Los Gatos Creek Trail Run
The Los Gatos Creek Trail Run is an annual event that takes place in November and features a half marathon, 10K, and 5K race. The race course runs along the scenic Los Gatos Creek Trail, and participants are treated to beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Overall, Los Gatos offers a diverse range of events and activities throughout the year, from art shows and cultural festivals to outdoor races and parades. Whether you’re interested in art and culture, sports and fitness, or just having fun with family and friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant and dynamic town. Feel free to reach out to the Property Nerds of the Boyenga Team for a no obligation consultation.