On California's storied San Francisco Peninsula, two cities consistently attract discerning buyers who prize architectural character, strong schools, and a polished suburban lifestyle: Burlingame and San Mateo. Both are close enough to San Francisco and Silicon Valley to be convenient, yet far enough away to offer peace, privacy, and a well-rounded small-town atmosphere.
With a budget between $2 million and $4 million, buyers enter a competitive but rewarding market tier that unlocks charming single-family homes, premium locations, and even the occasional architectural gem. In this post, we're not comparing which city is "better," but instead exploring what this price range offers in each market, the lifestyle and architectural features associated with each tier, and how the two cities differ in nuance and value.
Community Overview
Burlingame: Elegance Beneath the Trees
Nicknamed the "City of Trees", Burlingame is prized for its walkable, leafy streets, charming downtown areas (Burlingame Avenue and Broadway), and stately architecture that ranges from pre-war Craftsman bungalows to newer transitional builds. With just under 30,000 residents, the town maintains a boutique ambiance that appeals to professionals, families, and retirees alike.
The neighborhoods vary in personality and price:
The neighborhoods vary in personality and price:
- Burlingame Park is among the most prestigious, with stately homes and generous lots within walking distance to downtown.
- Easton Addition blends character and community, with tree-lined blocks and beautifully maintained vintage homes.
- Burlingame Terrace and Burlingame Village offer charm and proximity to schools and shops—perfect for those looking to enter the market without sacrificing location.
The city's central Peninsula location makes it ideal for commuting north to San Francisco or south into tech corridors, while San Francisco International Airport is just minutes away.
San Mateo: Sophisticated and Expansive
Just south of Burlingame, San Mateo offers a slightly larger footprint and broader diversity in both housing stock and lifestyle. From the elegant estates of San Mateo Park and Baywood-Aragon to the more contemporary homes in Bay Meadows and Hillsdale, the city's mix of classic and modern neighborhoods is part of its appeal.
- Baywood-Aragon and San Mateo Park are rich in early 20th-century architecture, featuring Spanish Colonials, Tudor Revivals, and large custom homes.
- Bay Meadows is a relatively new master-planned community, known for its walkability, new construction, and family-friendly parks.
- Hillsdale and Hayward Park offer substantial value and a balance between urban convenience and suburban calm.
San Mateo also boasts a vibrant downtown, excellent schools, and easy access to Highway 92, making east-west commuting to Half Moon Bay or the East Bay more manageable.
Price Tiers
Let's take a closer look at what $2 million, $3 million, and $4 million will typically buy in Burlingame and San Mateo, factoring in architecture, square footage, lot size, and lifestyle.
$2 Million
Burlingame
At this level, expect a charming but modestly sized home, often 3 to 4 bedrooms, two bathrooms, and around 1,500 to 2,200 square feet. Homes may date back to the 1920s–1950s, but are usually beautifully updated. Think original hardwoods, classic millwork, and manicured gardens.
Consider 700 Howard Avenue, a three-bedroom, 2.5-bath home built in 1938 and spanning over 2,000 square feet. Located in Burlingame Gardens, this home offers vintage charm with tasteful updates and a large lot for entertaining. Similarly, 1325 Paloma Avenue showcases classic curb appeal, an open layout, and proximity to top-ranked schools, all hallmark features of a $2 million Burlingame property.
San Mateo
Buyers at the $2 million level tend to get a bit more in San Mateo, either in square footage or modernity. 300 31st Avenue, for instance, offers over 2,000 square feet in the Beresford Park neighborhood, with remodeled interiors, a landscaped backyard, and excellent walkability. Meanwhile, 505 Castilian Way offers storybook architecture, hardwood floors, and updated systems in the sought-after Baywood neighborhood.
Expect slightly larger lots and greater architectural diversity in this price bracket in San Mateo compared to Burlingame.
$3 Million
Burlingame
A $3 million budget opens the door to larger homes in prestigious pockets like Easton Addition or the Burlingame Hills. At this tier, you'll find high-end finishes, 3,000–4,500 square feet of living space, generous outdoor areas, and better privacy.
A $3 million budget opens the door to larger homes in prestigious pockets like Easton Addition or the Burlingame Hills. At this tier, you'll find high-end finishes, 3,000–4,500 square feet of living space, generous outdoor areas, and better privacy.
For example, 2704 Summit Drive features four bedrooms and over 3,800 square feet of refined living space, complemented by meticulously curated gardens and stunning views of the hillside. 3036 Atwater Drive, also in the Burlingame Hills, is a Joseph Eichler mid-century modern five-bedroom home with expansive interior volume, sleek finishes, and outdoor terraces designed for entertaining.
San Mateo
At $3 million, San Mateo offers a luxurious upgrade in its premier neighborhoods. 33 Seville Way, located in Baywood, blends traditional appeal with modern sophistication—think wood-beamed ceilings, an upgraded kitchen, and a spacious primary suite. 635 Occidental Avenue presents a rare opportunity to own a substantial four-bedroom home in San Mateo Park, renowned for its expansive lots and elegant landscaping.
The homes here tend to be larger and more architecturally significant compared to similarly priced options in Burlingame.
$4 Million
Burlingame
Now you're shopping for legacy homes—newer builds or beautifully preserved estate-style residences. 2301 Easton Drive offers timeless charm across a substantial floor plan, featuring 3 bedrooms, a dramatic foyer, and opportunities for an owner to make the home their own. 1901 Carmelita Avenue blends European influences with California functionality, including chef-grade appliances, spa-style bathrooms, and curated living spaces both indoors and out.
Now you're shopping for legacy homes—newer builds or beautifully preserved estate-style residences. 2301 Easton Drive offers timeless charm across a substantial floor plan, featuring 3 bedrooms, a dramatic foyer, and opportunities for an owner to make the home their own. 1901 Carmelita Avenue blends European influences with California functionality, including chef-grade appliances, spa-style bathrooms, and curated living spaces both indoors and out.
At this level, you're often in Burlingame Park, near the Hillsborough border, or enjoying elevated hilltop views and full-scale custom construction.
San Mateo
$4 million buys you a premier San Mateo address with scale, elegance, and standout architecture. 2184 Cobblehill Place is an entertainer's dream, featuring a modern Mediterranean style with a pool, open-concept interiors, and high-end finishes throughout. Meanwhile, 626 Occidental Avenue stands as a grand estate in San Mateo Park with multiple fireplaces, detailed millwork, and serene outdoor living spaces framed by mature trees.
This tier often includes architectural pedigree, rare lot configurations, or unique features like guest houses, formal libraries, and designer landscaping.
Discover More of the Burlingame and San Mateo Luxury Lifestyle with Trusted Real Estate Experts
For luxury homebuyers between $2 million and $4 million, both Burlingame and San Mateo deliver exceptional options, with each boasting its own laudable strengths.
Burlingame homes tend to offer vintage charm and traditional floor plans, while San Mateo offers a broader mix, from Craftsman and Tudor to sleek new construction. Conversely, in terms of value, San Mateo may stretch your buying power in terms of lot size and square footage; Burlingame holds immense value for those who appreciate walkability and neighborhood aesthetics as much as the home itself.
Ultimately, with their shared ability to deliver highly rated public schools and access to renowned private options, as well as equally vibrant yet distinctly unique downtown corridors, there is no wrong choice when deciding on a home in Burlingame or San Mateo. It's about which locale is the right choice for you, your lifestyle, and your real estate goals.
If you're ready to explore the luxury lifestyle in Burlingame, San Mateo, or another of the San Francisco Peninsula's vaunted communities, or are considering listing one of the area's spectacular homes for sale, contact the Sternsmith Group today to start your Bay Area real estate journey.
