Charleston Gardens, Palo Alto, CA
At a glance
Charleston Gardens is ranked #10 of 27 neighborhoods in Palo Alto with an overall score of 4.4/5. Its standout factors are schools (5.0/5, 5th of 27 in Palo Alto) and nearby merchants (4.3/5), at a median home price of $3.25M, which Houseberry currently rates as undervalued by about $304,000. The trade-off is curb appeal (3.0/5), though prices run about 27% below the Palo Alto median.
Neighborhood Reviews & Questions
Charleston Gardens is a straightforward, practical neighborhood known for its mix of architectural styles and its active community atmosphere. Here, you'll find a blend of ranch-style homes, mid-century moderns, and some newer constructions. It's not a cookie-cutter community, but one where each home adds its own flair to the streetscape. Charleston Gardens is home to a very active neighborhood association. What stands out is the participatory approach to governance; local forums, physical and online bulletin boards, and various community activities involve residents in shaping the community. This isn't a place where decisions are made solely by a small governing body; residents genuinely have a voice. Day-to-day shopping is made easy with the Charleston Center just around the corner. It's your go-to spot for groceries, grabbing a quick meal, or even a casual dinner out. No need to venture far; you have your necessities within easy reach. Unlike some neighborhoods that are highly oriented toward the tech industry due to their proximity to specific companies, Charleston Gardens offers a respite. It's close enough to tech corridors for a manageable commute but sufficiently distanced to keep the hustle and bustle at bay. This makes it a choice location for those who work in tech but seek a more varied community. In summary, Charleston Gardens offers a variety of home styles and a strong sense of community, all backed by the conveniences of easy commuting and local amenities. It's a sensible choice for those who want a balanced, engaged lifestyle in Palo Alto.
Top Neighborhoods in Palo Alto, CA
Neighborhood Amenities
Near good merchants4.3
Public Spaces3.5
Curb Appeal3
Overall Amenities score: 3.4
Neighborhood Weather
Neighborhood Photos
1 of 2
Schools serving this Neighborhood
| School Name | Type | Grades | Houseberry School Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairmeadow Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Jane Lathrop Stanford Middle | Middle | 6-8 | |
| Henry M. Gunn High | High | 9-12 |
Click links for school listing
info at GreatSchools.org
Houseberry School Score Data
from CA Dept. of Education
Houseberry recommends using these scores as only a starting point, and conducting your own investigation into what schools fit best for your preferences. School boundaries are not guaranteed and may change. It is important to contact the appropriate school district to confirm enrollment eligibility before making any decision to move to a neighborhood.
Median Price
Charleston Gardens FAQs10 answers
Is Charleston Gardens a good place to live?
Charleston Gardens ranks 10th of 27 neighborhoods in Palo Alto with an overall Houseberry score of 4.4 out of 5. Its strongest factors are schools (5.0/5) and nearby merchants (4.3/5). The trade-off is curb appeal (3.0/5).
Is Charleston Gardens safe?
Charleston Gardens, Palo Alto scores 4.3 out of 5 on Houseberry's Safety Score, ranking 10th of 27 neighborhoods in Palo Alto.
What do homes in Charleston Gardens cost?
The median home price in Charleston Gardens, Palo Alto is $3.25M, compared with $4.44M for Palo Alto as a whole. Houseberry currently rates it undervalued by about $304,000 against comparable neighborhoods.
Are home prices in Charleston Gardens rising or falling?
The median home price in Charleston Gardens, Palo Alto is down about 1.7% over the past 12 months, from $3.31M to $3.25M. The full 12-month history is charted in the Median Price section on this page.
Which schools serve Charleston Gardens?
Schools serving Charleston Gardens, Palo Alto include Fairmeadow Elementary (4.9/5), Jane Lathrop Stanford Middle (5.0/5) and Henry M. Gunn High (5.0/5).
What is the weather like in Charleston Gardens?
Charleston Gardens, Palo Alto receives 79% of its possible sunshine, 2nd of 27 in Palo Alto. Summer days run 56° to 78°F and winter days 43° to 60°F, August is the warmest month and rainfall averages about 15 inches a year.
Is Charleston Gardens walkable to shops and restaurants?
Charleston Gardens, Palo Alto scores 4.3 out of 5 for nearby merchants and 3.5 out of 5 for public spaces. Its overall amenities score is 3.4 out of 5, 20th of 27 in Palo Alto.
What is Charleston Gardens known for?
Charleston Gardens, Palo Alto is associated with Convenient, Practical and Low-key. Its highest-scoring factors are schools (5.0/5) and nearby merchants (4.3/5).
How does Charleston Gardens compare to other Palo Alto neighborhoods?
Charleston Gardens ranks 10th of 27 neighborhoods in Palo Alto. It ranks 5th of 27 in Palo Alto for schools (5.0/5) and scores lowest on curb appeal (3.0/5). The highest-ranked neighborhoods in Palo Alto are Duveneck - St. Francis and Greenmeadow.
What are the downsides of living in Charleston Gardens?
Charleston Gardens, Palo Alto scores lowest on curb appeal (3.0/5).
Neighborhood Photos
1 of 2
Top Neighborhoods in Palo Alto, CA
Neighborhood Map
View Full Map
All information provided on this website including but not limited to - school ratings, safety, amenities, user opinions, and property data - is for general informational purposes only. We do not guarantee its reliability, accuracy, or completeness. Users should independently verify information and consult appropriate professionals as needed. By using this website, you agree Houseberry is not responsible for actions, decisions, or consequences arising from reliance on the information provided
houseberry.com - CA DRE# 01847391
Bay East ©2025. CCAR ©2025. bridgeMLS ©2025. Information Deemed Reliable But Not Guaranteed. This information is being provided by the Bay East MLS, or CCAR MLS, or bridgeMLS. The listings presented here may or may not be listed by the Broker/Agent operating this website. This information is intended for the personal use of consumers and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Data last updated at August 14, 2026 12:00 AM