Just two miles from the hustle and bustle of Palo Alto’s University Ave is a quiet neighborhood of oak-shaded, traditional ranchers. Leland Manor is a rectangular segment tucked between Louis Road, California Avenue, Middlefield Road, and Seale Avenue. It’s a friendly and highly affluent neighborhood — most of the residents are Baby Boomers are retirees. Recently, however, the neighborhood’s proximity to schools and vibrant community centers has attracted an influx of younger families.

Homes in Leland Manor were all built post-war, largely in 1946-1951. Though they vary in style, with homes featuring Mediterranean influences to English-styled manors, most are single-storied. The homes in Leland Manor pioneered the familiar rancher style now iconic to Palo Alto. Within the neighborhood, cul-de-sacs serve as private, safe pockets of homes. A unique feature of the neighborhood is its lack of telephone poles and wires — its utilities are all underground.

Leland Manor’s peaceful ambiance but close proximity to community hubs makes it an attractive option for every demographic. It’s across the street from Greene Middle School and right next to Walter Hays Elementary, as well as Rinconada Library, Rinconada Pool, the Palo Alto Art Center, and the Children’s Library. It’s also minutes away from Stanford University and Palo Alto Square, offering working professionals a short commute. For longer distances, US Route 101 is just down the road. The neighborhood’s suburban nature means it’s not quite within walking distance to restaurants and bars, but well-contained traffic controlled by well-placed stop signs and bike-friendly paths are a more-than-fair tradeoff.