Finding the Perfect Place to Live in Silicon Valley: A Guide for Apple Employees

Table of Contents

• Intro
• Cupertino
• Mountain View
• Sunnyvale
• Los Gatos & Saratoga
• Santa Clara
• Campbell
• Resources
• FAQ

Intro

If you're an Apple employee or considering joining the ranks, you're probably wondering where to live. In this guide, we'll explore seven exceptional areas within a 30-minute commute of Apple, each offering unique amenities, culture, and community. Whether you're seeking bustling streets, suburban tranquility, or historic charm, these exceptional areas provide the perfect setting to thrive personally and professionally in Silicon Valley.

• Overview of seven exceptional areas within a 30-minute commute of Apple
• Unique blend of amenities, culture, and community in each neighborhood
• Guidance for Apple employees seeking the perfect place to call home

Cupertino

Cupertino exudes an undeniable sense of innovation and sophistication beyond its symbolic connection to the tech giant. Celebrated for its top-rated schools, diverse culinary scene, and well-maintained parks, residents can enjoy leisurely weekends exploring the picturesque grounds in Memorial Park or indulging in one of Main Street's quaint cafes and great restaurants for a nice lunch.

• Top-rated schools and diverse culinary scene
• Well-maintained parks and vibrant community
• Strong sense of community and commitment to excellence

The median price for Cupertino is a little on the high side, with about $3.5 million for the median home price, while condos and townhomes average about $1.1 million. These prices are considered on the upper end due to the excellent schools and the close proximity to the Apple campus. As of the end of the first quarter in 2024, the numbers may be skewed due to low housing inventory, leading to lower data points for sales.

Mountain View

Mountain View boasts a vibrant atmosphere fueled by its proximity to major tech companies, including Apple. Its charming downtown area is lined with eclectic streets, restaurants, and cafes, offering residents a perfect balance between work and play.

• Access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking in the nearby Santa Cruz mountains
• Enjoying a leisurely stroll along the scenic Stevens Creek Trail
• Proximity to Shoreline Amphitheater with a plethora of music and entertainment venues

Home values in Mountain View are influenced by proximity to downtown or the different school districts. Prices for single-family homes range from approximately $2.5 million, while condos and townhomes average about $1.3 million. Mountain View also benefits from a Cal Train Station stop near downtown, providing easy access to other cities like San Francisco.

Sunnyvale

Sunnyvale is strategically positioned in the heart of Silicon Valley, offering a unique blend of diversity and innovation. Renowned for its forward-thinking initiatives, the city provides residents with abundant recreational opportunities, from teeing off at the scenic Sunnyvale Golf Course to enjoying leisurely strolls in the lush green spaces of Bayland Park.

• Abundant recreational opportunities
• Forward-thinking initiatives and diverse community
• Rich cultural experiences in downtown Murphy Street

Sunnyvale's housing landscape encompasses a variety of options, from newer-built townhome communities developed after the 2000s to older, more established homes. Each neighborhood within Sunnyvale offers its own distinct character and amenities, catering to every taste and lifestyle. The median home prices in Sunnyvale reflect its desirability, standing at approximately $2.25 million for single-family homes and $1.35 million for condos and townhomes.

Los Gatos & Saratoga

Two of our favorite places for those seeking a more refined and serene living environment, the neighboring towns of Los Gatos and Saratoga offer an unparalleled sense of luxury and exclusivity. Nestled amongst the rolling hills of Santa Clara Valley, these affluent communities boast picturesque downtown areas lined with upscale boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. Residents can escape the hustle and bustle of city life by exploring the scenic trails of nearby Santa Cruz mountains or indulging in a relaxing spa day at one of the luxury resorts. Both towns offer great hiking and biking trails, providing a green, serene space for outdoor activities. Schools in Los Gatos and Saratoga boast top-rated schools, adding to the appeal of the area. However, home prices in these upscale neighborhoods are in the premium price range, with a median price of $3.1 million for Los Gatos single-family homes and $4.2 million for Saratoga single-family homes. For townhomes and condos, Los Gatos averages at $1.3 million, while Saratoga averages at $1.6 million, offering a wide range of options catering to different needs.

Santa Clara

Santa Clara, one of the oldest communities in Silicon Valley, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and innovation. Home to the renowned Levi's Stadium and California's Great America theme park, Santa Clara provides residents with ample opportunities for entertainment and recreation. Moreover, its central location within the Bay Area makes it an ideal hub for both work and leisure with easy access to major highways and public transportation. Whether it's cheering on the San Francisco 49ers at a football game or exploring the interactive exhibits at the Intel Museum, residents of Santa Clara enjoy a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle that reflects the spirit of Silicon Valley.

• Rich tapestry of history, culture, and innovation
• Ample opportunities for entertainment and recreation
• Central location within the Bay Area with easy access to major highways and public transportation

Median home prices stand at approximately $1.95 million for a single-family home and condos run about $1.35 million. Additionally, some pockets of Santa Clara feed into the Cupertino School District, adding more appeal to those looking for top schools. The amazing shopping at Westfield Valley Fair and Santana Row adds to the area's allure. With Santa Clara's vibrant lifestyle and proximity to top schools, it's an excellent choice for Apple employees and their families.

Campbell

Situated just a short drive from Apple's headquarters, Campbell embodies the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Its historic downtown area, dotted with quaint cafes, boutiques, and art galleries, exudes a laid-back ambiance that appeals to residents of all ages. Additionally, Campbell hosts a variety of community events and festivals throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among its diverse population.

One of the highlights in Campbell is the street festivals. They close down the street for events such as the Boogie on the Bayou Festival, Oktoberfest, and many others. The weekly farmers market is another must-visit, offering a diverse range of produce, dairy, and meat, providing an amazing shopping experience for residents and visitors.

Whether you're enjoying a bite to eat at the farmers market or at one of the amazing restaurants with outdoor patios, or going for a hike on the scenic Los Gatos Creek Trail, residents of Campbell will find countless opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Some areas of Campbell also offer great schools, influencing home prices. The average home price for single-family homes in Campbell is roughly about $2 million, and for condos and townhomes, it's approximately $1.15 million, catering to a variety of different sizes and locations.

Living closer to downtown or in a better school district can make a difference in pricing. Besides downtown Campbell, there's also the Pruneyard, which hosts a variety of great restaurants and activities, as well as Santana Row, located right next door to Campbell, providing residents with endless things to do.

In conclusion, Campbell is a fantastic option for Apple employees seeking the perfect place to call home in Silicon Valley, offering a great combination of modern amenities and community events in a small-town setting. 

Download our Neigborhood Guide

Are you an Apple employee or considering joining the ranks? If you're looking for the perfect place to live, we've curated an insightful booklet filled with historical nuggets and neighborhood details just for you. It's yours for FREE! Click here to  download or reach out for a complimentary hard copy!

Phone: 408-209-2291  
Email: thelocals@compass.com
Website: www.siliconvalleylocals.com