Ventura, Palo Alto, CA
At a glance
Ventura is ranked #22 of 27 neighborhoods in Palo Alto with an overall score of 3.9/5. Its standout factors are schools (4.6/5, 25th of 27 in Palo Alto) and nearby merchants (4.3/5), at a median home price of $2.66M, which Houseberry currently rates as undervalued by about $450,000. The trade-offs are curb appeal (2.5/5) and public spaces (3.0/5), though prices run about 40% below the Palo Alto median.
Neighborhood Reviews & Questions
One of the most defining characteristics of Ventura is its closeness to California Avenue, which acts as a sort of "alternative downtown" for Palo Alto. Unlike the bustling University Avenue in downtown Palo Alto, California Avenue offers a more relaxed, bohemian vibe. You'll find artisan coffee shops, diverse eateries, and independent boutiques that cater to a different crowd—more artsy, less corporate. The architecture in Ventura is a fascinating blend. You'll find quaint bungalows next to multi-story contemporary homes, reflective of the area's eclectic nature. This diversity extends to the local populace, which consists of a blend of young professionals, families, and long-time residents, all of whom add to Ventura's unique character. For outdoor activities, you don't have to go far. The nearby Mitchell Park and its accompanying community center provide ample green spaces for picnics and a playground for the kids. For those with fur babies, the Greer Park Dog Run is just a stone's throw away. Ventura stands out for the variety in its community spots. Alongside traditional community centers and parks, you'll find niche places like Zen centers and craft breweries. This eclectic mix means the neighborhood appeals to a broad spectrum of residents—from young singles to retirees, from the spiritually inclined to the beer aficionados.
Top Neighborhoods in Palo Alto, CA
Neighborhood Amenities
Near good merchants4.3
Public Spaces3
Curb Appeal2.5
Overall Amenities score: 3.1
Neighborhood Weather
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Schools serving this Neighborhood
| School Name | Type | Grades | Houseberry School Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barron Park Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Ellen Fletcher 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
Ventura FAQs10 answers
Is Ventura a good place to live?
Ventura ranks 22nd of 27 neighborhoods in Palo Alto with an overall Houseberry score of 3.9 out of 5. Its strongest factors are schools (4.6/5) and nearby merchants (4.3/5). The trade-offs are curb appeal (2.5/5) and public spaces (3.0/5).
Is Ventura safe?
Ventura, Palo Alto scores 3.5 out of 5 on Houseberry's Safety Score, ranking 17th of 27 neighborhoods in Palo Alto.
What do homes in Ventura cost?
The median home price in Ventura, Palo Alto is $2.66M, compared with $4.44M for Palo Alto as a whole. Houseberry currently rates it undervalued by about $450,000 against comparable neighborhoods.
Are home prices in Ventura rising or falling?
The median home price in Ventura, Palo Alto is up about 4.0% over the past 12 months, from $2.56M to $2.66M. The full 12-month history is charted in the Median Price section on this page.
Which schools serve Ventura?
Schools serving Ventura, Palo Alto include Barron Park Elementary (4.3/5), Ellen Fletcher Middle (5.0/5) and Henry M. Gunn High (5.0/5).
What is the weather like in Ventura?
Ventura, Palo Alto receives 79% of its possible sunshine, 11th 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 16 inches a year.
Is Ventura walkable to shops and restaurants?
Ventura, Palo Alto scores 4.3 out of 5 for nearby merchants and 3.0 out of 5 for public spaces. Its overall amenities score is 3.1 out of 5, 24th of 27 in Palo Alto.
What is Ventura known for?
Ventura, Palo Alto is associated with Transitional, Eclectic and Accessible. Its highest-scoring factors are schools (4.6/5) and nearby merchants (4.3/5).
How does Ventura compare to other Palo Alto neighborhoods?
Ventura ranks 22nd of 27 neighborhoods in Palo Alto. It ranks 25th of 27 in Palo Alto for schools (4.6/5) and scores lowest on curb appeal (2.5/5). The highest-ranked neighborhoods in Palo Alto are Duveneck - St. Francis and Greenmeadow.
What are the downsides of living in Ventura?
Ventura, Palo Alto scores lowest on curb appeal (2.5/5) and public spaces (3.0/5).
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