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The San Marino housing market remains very competitive, with strong demand driving steady price growth. Last month, the median sale price reached $3.0M, a 1.4% increase compared to the previous year, while the median price per square foot rose 2.0% to $1,040. These gains reflect continued buyer interest, particularly for luxury properties, and highlight San Marino’s enduring appeal as a high-demand, upscale market.
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Median Sale Price per Sq. Ft.
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In May 2025, San Marino’s housing market saw a modest 1.4% year-over-year increase in median home prices, reaching $3.0M, reflecting stable demand in this luxury market segment. Homes are selling at nearly the same pace as last year, averaging 27 days on the market compared to 26 days in May 2024, indicating consistent buyer interest for well-priced properties. However, sales volume declined significantly, with only 8 homes sold this May compared to 14 the previous year, suggesting either limited inventory or a more selective pool of high-end buyers. Despite the drop in transactions, the steady pricing underscores San Marino’s continued desirability.
San Marino remains a very competitive market, with homes typically going pending in about 27 days. Many properties receive multiple offers, and some buyers are waiving contingencies to secure desirable homes. On average, homes sell for around 4% above list price, reflecting strong demand and limited inventory. Hot homes—particularly those in prime locations or with luxury upgrades—can sell for as much as 10% above asking and go under contract in as little as 13 days, underscoring the urgency for buyers in this high-end market.
As of June 2025, San Marino, CA is a strong seller’s market, with buyer demand exceeding the available housing inventory. This imbalance creates a competitive environment where homes often receive multiple offers, sell quickly, and frequently close above asking price. Sellers are well-positioned to secure favorable terms, while buyers face limited options and need to act decisively—often submitting strong, contingency-free offers to compete in this high-demand luxury market.
Contact Gordon Wang today for personalized guidance, expert negotiation, and access to exclusive listings. Whether you're searching for a historic gem, a move-in-ready modern home, or a long-term investment, Gordon will help you navigate San Marino’s competitive market with clarity and confidence.
SMUSD is consistently top-tier, and attendance is address-based with strict residency verification; inter-district permits are limited. Being inside the boundary is a major driver of demand and pricing. Confirm an exact address with the district before offering, and budget for school-related parcel taxes that help fund staffing and programs.
Most exterior work visible from public view—new homes, many additions, fences, gates, window/roof changes—triggers Design Review Committee (DRC) approval, with required submittals and adopted residential design guidelines. San Marino also maintains pre-approved lists for roof and window materials; deviations typically require hearings and can extend timelines. Plan for this process early (drawings, narratives, neighbor notices) to avoid delays and redesign costs.
The city is predominantly R-1 single-family; commercial uses are prohibited in these zones. Within R-1, “Area Districts” set statutory minimum lot sizes and control maximum livable area, coverage, and setbacks—your specific district materially changes what you can build. Use the City’s Plan Information Sheet (and the updated 2024 zoning code/map) to calculate allowable square footage before you bid on a remodel or teardown.
Removing an established, heritage, or oak tree requires a city permit; violations carry enforcement and restoration penalties. Even routine pruning has rules, and front-yard paving is capped (e.g., limits on paved area within required setbacks), which affects driveways, courtyards, and landscape concepts. Factor arborist reports, permitting time, and potential redesigns into due diligence.
Detached ADUs are allowed but capped by local standards (e.g., up to 1,200 sq ft, height and story limits). The State HCD has directed San Marino to align its ADU ordinance with state law, and the city has adopted recent code updates (ADU provisions, Urban Lot Split, and Housing Element Zoning Code Update). ADU/SB 9 feasibility varies by lot and area district—verify the latest objective standards before you underwrite.
San Marino is a quiet, primarily residential city; day-to-day dining and shopping often rely on adjacent Pasadena/South Pasadena corridors. Lacy Park—the city’s 30-acre centerpiece—normally charges a non-resident weekend entry fee (temporarily suspended after recent regional wildfires; fee schedule still lists the charge). Proximity to The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a signature amenity and a micro-location premium for many buyers.
If you’re interested in buying a property in San Marino, CA, or have any questions about the market, Gordon is here to help. With in-depth knowledge of the local area and a commitment to providing exceptional service, Gordon will guide you through every step of the process. Don’t wait—reach out today and start your journey toward owning your ideal home in this desirable community!
Discover what makes San Marino, CA, such a sought-after place to live with our comprehensive neighborhood guide. From top schools to local amenities and everything in between, our guide gives you all the insights you need to understand the unique charm of this beautiful community. Start exploring today and get to know your future neighborhood!
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680 E Colorado Blvd. #150
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