Welcome to Foster City
Splendid outdoor adventures await in this lively San Mateo County city
Foster City is a beautiful, planned waterfront community just 25 miles south of San Francisco. Home to 33,805 residents, the whole idea around Foster City was to build an innovative community for residents to enjoy when they return from a hectic day working in the midst of the Bay Area and Silicon Valley industries. Foster City’s own industrial and commercial developments are kept separate from residential developments, resulting in an enhanced quality of life for its residents, the business community, and visitors. Perfect for recreational enjoyment, a tremendous park encompasses over 20 acres and includes a bike path, boat lunch, a recreation center, par course, tennis and basketball courts, plus an outdoor amphitheater right on the lagoon. Adding to the appeal are Foster City’s acclaimed schools – truly an exceptional place to live and play.
Foster City got its start in the 1960s when the enclave’s visionary namesake, T. Jack Foster, reimagined a city on the eastern corner of San Mateo. Today, the vibrant, master-planned community is legendary for its bounty of natural splendors, exceptional walkability, solid sense of safety, and ample tranquility.
Residents of this coveted region specifically choose this city not only for its proximity to San Francisco but, perhaps moreover, for its abundance of delightful activities. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or passionate about fishing, a windsurfer, or a hiker, Foster City effortlessly enables its residents to savor a healthy, active lifestyle.
As such, Foster City has become one of the most affluent and desirable cities on the San Francisco Peninsula. From waterfront splendors to contemporary, single-family beauties, the range of real estate options epitomizes the word “extraordinary.”
What to Love
- A robust community feel with events held throughout the year
- Perfectly situated near San Francisco and Silicon Valley
- Gorgeous vistas of the water
Local Lifestyle
Foster City’s focus on community naturally lends itself to a warm, welcoming, affable energy eminently attractive to families with children. Retirees who prize time outside also fill the parks and trails of this hamlet. This is the sort of city that’s small enough to know your neighbors and yet urbane enough to have a slight metropolitan feel.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
The San Francisco Bay Area as a whole is known as a global destination for foodies. Foster City residents enjoy an enticing mix of relaxed, neighborly venues and posh spots, with many eateries representing flavors from around the world.
You’ll find plenty to love and appreciate at Waterfront Pizza, a venue cherished as much for its views of the lagoon as it is for its hookah bar. The Mediterranean fare here is dynamite, from their moussaka with garlic and eggplant to their spicy chicken kabobs. Sweet Basil Thai Cuisine is just as sumptuous. Their firecracker balls with fresh ahi, pumpkin curry with kabocha, and pad Thai are especially fantastic.
A short drive away, you’ll also discover why San Mateo’s All Spice is so heavily praised; the vibrant spot serves an incredible selection of Indian-inspired fare. Meanwhile, Espetus San Mateo delivers an impeccable experience with exquisite Brazilian steaks and succulent seafood skewers.
Things to Do
Foster City is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those who enjoy bonding with their community. The city’s Fourth of July celebration, hosted by Foster City Parks & Recreation, offers an entire day of utter fun, from a pancake breakfast to a night of fireworks and live music. The same month, the city challenges — and encourages — its residents to participate in the annual Parks & Recreation Month, whether it’s through attending Neighbor Nights or Off the Grid in Leo J. Ryan Park. The event, featuring local food trucks and live music, is always a hit with Foster City residents.
Come August, locals can have an excellent time camping with their neighbors and friends at the city’s yearly family overnighter in Boothbay Park. The same month, residents also gather for Summer Days, a celebration of Foster City’s birthday, at Leo J. Ryan Park. Fall is largely dedicated to Foster City’s Community Bike Ride and October’s Halloween Festival, which is held in the verdant meadows at Leo J. Ryan Park.
Schools
Children are served by the San Mateo-Foster City Elementary School District. A few of the most outstanding schools in the city include:
In 2023, the Foster City average price for a single-family home was $2,354,765, a 2% decrease from the previous year.
