This picturesque city, boasting around 18,000 trees that grace its streets and parks, has earned its moniker, City of Trees, due to the abundant tree-lined avenues. Situated midway between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, Burlingame enjoys a prime location with easy access to the San Francisco International Airport, making it an ideal base for commuters or travelers. Its proximity to major hubs like San Francisco and the tech centers of Silicon Valley, coupled with a small-town atmosphere, creates a perfect balance of convenience and tranquility. 

Burlingame's downtown areas, primarily centered around Burlingame and Broadway Avenues, are a vibrant heart of the city. The lively and exceptionally walkable downtown features a mix of high-end boutique shops, charming cafes, and upscale restaurants, making it a hub for both locals and visitors (just call us for our favorites ;). The community's well-maintained streets and lush parks invite people to enjoy a leisurely day out, whether it’s shopping, dining, or simply relaxing in one of the many beautiful outdoor spaces. The city’s diverse range of homes—ranging from vintage properties full of character to modern, luxurious estates—ensures that Burlingame can cater to a variety of lifestyles, whether you’re seeking a family-friendly neighborhood or a more peaceful retreat.

Real Estate and Schools

Burlingame’s real estate market is highly competitive, with the average sales price in Burlingame in 2024 at $3,022,511, a 7% increase year over year. The city’s median price per square foot is approximately $1,300. 

Burlingame is also known for its excellent public schools, including the six elementary schools in the Burlingame School District. The city’s high school, Burlingame High, continues to receive top rankings. 

A Rich History

Burlingame’s history dates back to the mid-19th century, with its roots firmly planted in California's Spanish land grant era. The area was originally part of Rancho San Mateo, granted to Cayetano Arenas in 1846. However, the transformation into the charming city we know today began when William Davis Merry Howard purchased the land and began planting eucalyptus trees. After Howard's death, the land was sold to William C. Ralston, a prominent banker, who renamed the area Burlingame in honor of Anson Burlingame, the U.S. Ambassador to China.

The 1906 San Francisco earthquake played a significant role in Burlingame's growth, as many displaced San Franciscans sought new homes. In 1908, the city was officially incorporated, and in 1910, it annexed the nearby town of Easton, which further expanded its boundaries. One of the city's earliest ordinances, passed to protect its tree-lined ambiance, prohibited the cutting or damaging of trees, cementing its nickname, “City of Trees.”

Burlingame's Uniqueness

The city’s unique combination of high-end dining, boutique shopping, and outdoor spaces ensures that there is always something to enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet meal at a chic restaurant or a relaxing afternoon in one of the city’s many parks, Burlingame offers something for everyone.

Burlingame has an inviting, warm energy that makes it easy to settle into everyday life. Its small population, particularly for a city in the San Francisco Bay Area, fosters a close-knit, community-oriented vibe. Residents often run into their neighbors while shopping along Burlingame Avenue or Broadway, or while enjoying a game of tennis or a round of golf at one of the city’s many well-maintained sports facilities.

The city also offers plenty of recreational activities for families, including well-maintained parks like Washington Park, which offers tennis courts, playing fields, and hosts events such as the our favorite, the Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony (we sponsor this yearly, and team member Diane Dwyer has emceed the event for years). The local library is a beautiful building and another gathering spot for both adults and children, adding to the city’s small-town charm.

Dining, Shopping & Entertainment

Burlingame is home to a dynamic and diverse food scene that caters to all tastes. From casual eateries to fine dining, the city offers a wide variety of options. Twelve Month, a popular vegan restaurant, has earned a reputation for its amazing bar scene and spacious outdoor seating area. For fans of Asian cuisine, Mingalaba Restaurant is our favorite, offering a colorful atmosphere and a menu featuring Burmese and Mandarin specialties. Caffe Central, with its inviting sidewalk seating, is the perfect spot for a casual brunch or coffee.

For those who appreciate the finer things, Burlingame boasts elegant jewelry shops like Patronik Designs, where visitors can find unique, custom-made pieces.

Things to Do

Burlingame offers a wealth of activities for residents and visitors alike. The city’s parks provide ample opportunities for outdoor fun, from Washington Park’s tennis courts to the peaceful ambiance of Village Park, perfect for a family picnic. The annual Burlingame Pet Parade is a beloved tradition, and the Peninsula Tennis Club caters to players of all skill levels (we grew up playing there!).

Burlingame Neighborhoods:

Burlingame has so many neighborhoods that almost every block has its own personality! That said, there are 11 distinct areas of the city: Burlingame Gardens, Burlingame Hills, Burlingame Park, Burlingame Terrace, Burlingame Village, Downtown Burlingame, Easton Addition, Lyon-Hoag, Mills Estates, Oak Grove Manor and Ray Park.