North Central, San Mateo, CA
Neighborhood Reviews & Questions
Key Words:
Affordable, Urban Grid, Transit-Accessible
North Central, San Mateo, CA North Central is a dense, walkable neighborhood sitting between downtown San Mateo and Highway 101. It’s one of the city’s most affordable and diverse areas, with a mix of apartments, older single-family homes, and small multi-unit buildings. The grid layout and flat streets make it especially pedestrian- and bike-friendly. While the housing stock leans older, the neighborhood is evolving, with remodels and new builds scattered throughout. Residents are within easy reach of a wide range of amenities, from ethnic markets and local taquerias to the movie theater and grocery stores at Bay Meadows and Hillsdale. Proximity to Caltrain and major highways keeps commutes convenient, and while green space is limited, it’s offset by the central location and access to nearby parks.
Schools serving this Neighborhood
| School Name | Type | Grades | Houseberry School Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baywood Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Beresford Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Highlands Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Laurel Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Meadow Heights Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| San Mateo Park Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Abbott Middle | Middle | 6-8 | |
| Borel Middle | Middle | 6-8 | |
| San Mateo 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.
Neighborhood Amenities
Near good merchants4.3
Public Spaces3
Curb Appeal2.5
Overall Amenities score: 3.1
Median Price
Neighborhood Photos
1 of 8
Top Neighborhoods in San Mateo, CA
Looking to Buy or Sell?
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 October 30, 2025 12:00 AM