Check out these top SAN FRANCISCO SUBURBS for stay-at-home moms!
Leaving San Francisco for the amazing Bay Area ‘burbs? We don’t blame you. Between the incredible amenities and activities paired with the easy urban-to-suburban access and plenty of A+ schools, there’s not much missing from the San Francisco suburbs.
But, for many families, there’sanothercritical piece of the suburban puzzle. Not only do you want a town that’s commutable, family-friendly and syncs with your brood’s lifestyle but you, stay-at-home mama, want a community that’s got the right support, the right access and the right vibe — right for the SAHM set. That’s why we’ve rounded up our top picks for San Francisco’s best SAHM suburbs. Want to learn more?Get in touch.
In the EAST BAY:
#1. DANVILLE
What’s NOT to love in Danville, especially if you’re a SAHM. The area is packed with parks and loads of young families from San Francisco drawn to the laid-back and highly walkable community. And, because you aren’t commuting into the city daily, you’ll have ample opportunities to roll up your sleeves and get involved in local school happenings. Danville boasts rock solid public and private school options, many of which thrive on parental involvement.
When your crew isn’t in school? Danville offers diverse after-school options including club and school-based sports, many of which are top-tier and can get highly competitive as kids age — think soccer and lacrosse, for starters. If sports aren’t your child’s “thing,” don’t worry — Danville has robust music and arts programs as well. And it’s not just kids getting in on the Danville action. As a parent, you’ll love everything from the local farmers market to the downtown lined with specialty shops to the clubs, spas, wineries and workout studios that call Danville “home.”
#2. PIEDMONT
This charming East Bay community draws countless city families every single year — including plenty of SAHMs. Despite being minutes from both Oakland and the Bay Bridge, Piedmont feels like it’s a world apart — it’s, in many ways, a suburban oasis with stunning views, tree-lined streets andveryeasy access to both Oakland and San Francisco. And beyond that, close to half of households have kids under 18, so you won’t be alone in your pursuit of things to do and playdates to schedule.
For the SAHM set, Piedmont offers lots, from highly ranked public schools (100% of graduates go on to college) to a popular community pool and Mulberry’s Market. What you WON’T find here? A dedicated downtown — but, for many moms, that’s another plus. Without the hustle and bustle, Piedmont can stay calm, quiet and off the radar of tourists and daytrippers, while still ensuring access to anything and everything a family could possibly need or want. Instead, Piedmont embraces its “Mayberry” qualities, with loads of small town activities — think school fundraisers, a big July 4 parade, tree lightings and a Turkey Trot that draws tons of local families. Overall, expect an affluent, well-educated community that’s committed to its diverse families.
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#3. ALAMEDA
Spanning 23-square miles, this beach-side town has a down-to-earth vibe many families fall in love with instantly. Known as a small town hotspot, in Alameda SAHMs will find lots to keep them occupied and in-the-know, from quaint local shops to “alarmingly friendly” neighbors and fellow mamas. The community itself is highly walkable (and bikeable) and extremely pet-friendly — so if you’ve got a four-legged family member, you’ll get plenty of exercise walking around town. Other perks? Crown State Memorial Beach with sweeping views of San Francisco, diverse restaurants lining Park Street and an A+ public school system that draws families from all over the area.
And for commuting spouses — or day trips into the city? You won’t have to sit in endless traffic. Instead, Alameda offers a ferry right to San Francisco. If you have little kids,that’san activity in and of itself…
In the SOUTH BAY:
#1. PALO ALTO
Great schools, a vibrant tech scene, a robust downtown and LOTS to do for families and for moms flying solo during the day, Palo Alto has long been a go-to for San Francisco broods looking to stay in the mix in the ‘burbs. Because Stanford University calls Palo Alto “home” — and because it’s in the heart of Silicon Valley — there’s never a shortage of things to do, places to eat or activities to dive into.
Part college town, part tech mecca, part stunning and epically family-friendly Bay Area suburb, Palo Alto families can be as busy or relaxed as they want — and with the constant Mediterranean climate, the weather supports year-round outdoor living, whether you’re shuttling the kids to soccer or grabbing a glass of rose at an outdoor cafe downtown. Stroll through the farmer’s market on California Avenue (bonus: free parking) and load up on avocados, kale and beets, bike around downtown and grab a world-famous cup of coffee (or two…or three). It’s all here, and it’s all part of the reason so many SAHMs love the community.
#2. BURLINGAME
SAHMs love the small town vibe in Burlingame. With less than 30,000 residents andtwogreat downtowns — California Avenue and Burlingame Avenue — complete with cafes, shopping and more, there’s lots to do in this bustling ‘burb. And if you want to head into the city? Hop on Caltrain and be in downtown San Francisco in 30 minutes.
In Burlingame, families are happy to find top-tier schools — both private and public — as well as plenty of extracurricular options for kids of all ages, from music and art to sports and yoga to coding, acting, dance and more. There’s also a very active mom’s group —Burlingame Mothers Club— which caters to mamas with kids six months to six years. With loads of social functions, speaker series, playgroups and volunteer opportunities, this is a great way to meet, mix and mingle with moms in the area, whether you’re new or have been in Burlingame for years.
Looking in theNYC SUBURBS? Check out our roundupHERE!
Suburban Jungleis an award-winning firm that specializes in moving families from urban to suburban. The company’s innovative “town first” approach helps buyers find the right suburb for their family based on personality and lifestyle, not just the house. Services are FREE and fully customized to each family and their unique journey. To learn more and to connect with a Suburbs Strategist, and find the place your family truly fits in visitwww.suburbanjunglerealty.comand clickGET STARTED.