Nestled in the heart of the San Francisco Peninsula, Hillsborough, CA, is a serene and prestigious town known for its scenic landscapes, sprawling estates, and unparalleled quality of life.
If you’re in the market to buy a property in this prominent location, this article provides everything you need to know about Hillsborough, CA, real estate to help you make an informed decision.
Why Hillsborough, CA is a Prime Location for Luxury Real Estate
Located just north of Silicon Valley, Hillsborough is one of the wealthiest communities in the United States.
The town is unique because of two things – its no commercial zoning law and expansive homes. The minimum square footage allowed for a residence in Hillsborough is 2,500 feet, with a minimum lot size requirement of half an acre.
Hillsborough is known for its peaceful ambiance, lush greenery, and privacy. Its prime location offers residents and guests a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
This idyllic neighborhood is also coveted for its affluent history, award-winning schools, exceptional public services, a private golf course, and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
The Luxury Real Estate Market in Hillsborough, CA
Hillsborough is a haven for affluent buyers, including tech executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking privacy and exclusivity.
The real estate market in this location is highly competitive, with buyers drawn to the town’s unparalleled charm and prestige. On average, homes in Hillsborough sell after 37 days on the market.
The median price for Hillsborough CA homes for sale was $6.9 million in February 2025, down by 12.4% year-over-year. The median listing home price per square foot was $1,300. The median home sold price was $5.3 million.
Architectural Styles of Hillsborough Luxury Homes
Mediterranean villas, modern masterpieces, and classic Colonial-style homes are prominent in the area. Homes typically feature private amenities, such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and meticulously landscaped gardens.
Glorious, historic mansions center many Hillsborough neighborhoods, while hew homes must have a minimum of 2,500 square feet on lots of at least half an acre. Most Hillsborough homes are larger, though, averaging about 4,000 square feet.
In Tobin Clark Estate, ranch-style and mid-century homes surround the 35,000-square-foot Tobin Clark Tudor mansion.
Some of the homes in Carolands have Beaux-Arts architectural elements such as Mansard roofs, grand entrances, and bas-relief panels.
Skyfarm residences feature stately traditional and Mediterranean revivals that overlook the bay and hills.
Top Neighborhoods for Luxury Homes in Hillsborough
Neighborhoods in Hillsborough each possess their own distinct charm and appeal, offering a range of options for potential buyers, from secluded, wooded enclaves to sprawling estates with unobstructed vistas.
Below are the top neighborhoods for luxury living in Hillsborough:
Investment Opportunities in Hillsborough Real Estate
Buying a property in the affluent town of Hillsborough, CA, presents potential homeowners and investors with an exclusive opportunity to invest in one of the most sought-after residential areas in the San Francisco Bay Area.
With increased IPOs and tech wealth, the luxury segment in California’s real estate market is expected to see significant growth, particularly in areas like Hillsborough.
Investors are likely to focus on areas like Hillsborough, which has strong rental demand and proximity to tech hubs. Multifamily properties and co-living spaces in this location also offer lucrative opportunities.
Buying a Luxury Home in Hillsborough, CA
Buyers must act quickly in highly competitive markets such as Hillsborough’s luxury real estate. Secure financing early so you can take advantage of potentially lower mortgage rates.
It will benefit buyers to work with a real estate agent who specializes in off-market deals. It is also advantageous to focus on properties with lifestyle-driven amenities.
Selling a Luxury Home in Hillsborough, CA
For sellers, a strong marketing strategy coupled with minor upgrades with smart and sustainable technology can help attract home buyers and investors.
Working with an experienced real estate professional can help you effectively position your home for maximum value. Highlight exclusivity, privacy, and security features for elite buyers.
The Role of Technology in Hillsborough Luxury Real Estate
In general, the Bay Area’s housing market is heavily influenced by the tech sector.
As tech giants like Google, Apple, and Meta are expected to expand operations and hire aggressively in 2025, the demand for housing is forecasted to remain strong.
The return of IPO activity could also add significant liquidity to the luxury real estate market, driving up prices in sought-after areas like Hillsborough.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Hillsborough may not have commercial districts, but its proximity to Burlingame and San Mateo provides residents with convenient access to dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Some of the popular nearby attractions include Downtown Burlingame, Coyote Point Recreation Area, Crystal Springs Golf Course, and Crystal Springs Regional Trail.
The town also features a variety of parks and open spaces, ensuring that residents enjoy a tranquil, relaxed, and nature-filled lifestyle.
Challenges and Considerations of Buying in Hillsborough
Inventory shortages in the Bay Area, including Hillsborough, are not likely to improve significantly in 2025, as many existing homeowners locked in low-interest mortgages are hesitant to sell their properties. There has been an increase in the number of new construction projects, but this remains insufficient to meet the demand.
With the Federal Reserve’s shift in focus from inflation control to economic growth, mortgage rates are expected to stabilize or decline slightly. Consequently, lower rates could bring more buyers into the market despite high home prices and stringent lending standards.
While challenges like affordability and inventory may persist in the Bay Area in 2025, the region is expected to maintain its status as one of the most competitive and lucrative in the nation due to its economic strength and desirability, which will continue to drive demand.
Future Trends in Hillsborough Real Estate
Overall, the luxury real estate in California is evolving in 2025, influenced by changing buyer preferences, economic trends, and a heightened focus on lifestyle, security, and sustainability.
In today’s real estate market, the definition of luxury living is shifting. Buyers are now looking beyond stunning architecture and seeking properties with amenities that enhance their lifestyle, such as home spas, infrared saunas, meditation gardens, private theaters, and virtual reality gaming rooms.
The demand for ultra-private, high-security estates is growing, as luxury buyers and investors like tech moguls, entertainment elites, and international investors are prioritizing privacy like never before.
Eco-conscious luxury real estate buyers and investors now seek smart and sustainable luxury homes that are energy-efficient and technologically advanced. Adding sustainability features can significantly enhance your property’s appeal in Hillsborough’s high-end market.
Some of the most sought-after features for luxury properties in Hillsborough include:
- Gated compounds
- Private driveways
- AI-powered security
- Biometric entry system
- Bulletproof glass
- Secure panic rooms
- Solar panels
- Tesla Powerwalls
- Smart energy grids
- Eco-friendly insulation
- Advanced air and water filtration systems
Conclusion
Hillsborough luxury real estate is the perfect option for discerning buyers and investors who value privacy, spacious living, and proximity to the cultural and economic hubs of the Bay Area.
Luxury real estate in Hillsborough, CA, is highly competitive and requires expert guidance. Whether you’re in the market to buy an exclusive off-market home or sell for top dollar, I can help. Please give me a call today at (650) 629-9898 or send me an email at teamtapper@gmail.com to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
The average price of a home in Hillsborough, CA, is $5,013,008, up 3% over the past year.
Its affluent history, expansive luxury homes, award-winning schools, exceptional public services, a private golf course, and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay are some of the factors that make Hillsborough one of the most expensive areas in California.
The luxury real estate market in Hillsborough is highly competitive, with buyers drawn to the town’s unparalleled charm and prestige.
