Palo Alto

A world-renowned city where innovation, education, and refined neighborhood living intersect

Overview for Palo Alto, CA

67,231 people live in Palo Alto, where the median age is 42.5 and the average individual income is $121,565. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

67,231

Total Population

42.5 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$121,565

Average individual Income

Welcome to Palo Alto

Palo Alto is one of Silicon Valley’s most prestigious and influential cities, celebrated for its intellectual energy, exceptional quality of life, and beautifully established neighborhoods. Home to Stanford University and countless global innovators, Palo Alto blends academic excellence with residential charm, creating a community that is both forward-thinking and deeply rooted.

Despite its international reputation, Palo Alto maintains a distinctly livable feel. Tree-lined streets, thoughtfully preserved neighborhoods, and a strong commitment to parks and open space give the city a calm, residential character—while its proximity to leading tech campuses and cultural institutions keeps it at the center of global innovation.

What to Love

One of the most desirable addresses in Silicon Valley
Beautiful residential neighborhoods with architectural character
A culture rooted in education, innovation, and lifelong learning
Walkable downtown districts with vibrant dining and shopping
Exceptional access to parks, open space, and Stanford University

Local Lifestyle

Life in Palo Alto is shaped by balance—between ambition and livability, innovation and tradition. Residents enjoy walkable neighborhoods, daily access to green space, and a community that values wellness, education, and connection. Mornings may start with a bike ride through shaded streets or coffee downtown, followed by workdays that often end with family time, outdoor activity, or cultural events.

The city attracts professionals, academics, families, and longtime residents who appreciate thoughtful living and intellectual curiosity. Palo Alto’s strong neighborhood identities foster a sense of belonging, while its global influence adds depth and opportunity to everyday life.

Dining and Shopping

Palo Alto’s dining scene is polished, diverse, and consistently excellent. University Avenue and California Avenue serve as lively hubs, offering everything from casual cafés and bakeries to fine dining and internationally inspired cuisine. Outdoor patios, wine bars, and neighborhood favorites create a social atmosphere that feels active yet relaxed.

Shopping is equally refined, with independent boutiques, specialty retailers, bookstores, and curated home and lifestyle shops. The emphasis is on quality and experience, reinforcing Palo Alto’s sophisticated but understated style.

Things to Do and Recreation

Outdoor access is a defining feature of Palo Alto living. The city is known for its extensive park system, tree canopy, and bike-friendly infrastructure. Stanford University’s expansive campus offers miles of walking paths, cultural venues, and open space, seamlessly integrated into the community.

Residents also enjoy nearby preserves and foothill trails for hiking and biking, as well as a strong calendar of lectures, performances, and cultural events. Palo Alto’s central Peninsula location makes it easy to explore neighboring cities, coastal destinations, and the broader Bay Area.

Schools

Palo Alto is widely recognized for its exceptional public schools, served by the Palo Alto Unified School District. The district is known for strong academics, robust arts and athletics programs, and high levels of community engagement, making it a major draw for families.

In addition to public schools, Palo Alto offers access to respected private schools and world-class higher education through Stanford University. The city’s deep commitment to education is a defining element of its identity and long-term appeal.

Property Listings

Price

Living Area

For Sale

MLS® ML82032103

Around Palo Alto, CA

There's plenty to do around Palo Alto, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

17

Car-Dependent

Walking Score

69

Bikeable

Bike Score

24

Minimal Transit

Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Body Matrix Personal Training, Tamayo's Judo, and Menlo Atherton Adult Soccer League.

Name	Category	Distance	Reviews	Ratings by Yelp
Visit the Body Matrix Personal Training page on Yelp Search 611 Menlo Ave on Google Maps	Active	4.49 miles	5 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Tamayo's Judo page on Yelp Search 290 California Ave on Google Maps	Active	2.24 miles	10 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Menlo Atherton Adult Soccer League page on Yelp Search 701 Laurel St on Google Maps	Active	4.37 miles	9 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Tobias Physical Therapy page on Yelp Search 1225 Crane St on Google Maps	Active	4.63 miles	7 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Write With Janet page on Yelp Search 203 Chester St on Google Maps	Active	4.85 miles	17 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Dolly Effect page on Yelp Search 127 Main St on Google Maps	Beauty	1.88 miles	44 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Irina Kucher page on Yelp Search 180 2nd St on Google Maps	Beauty	1.81 miles	5 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Jenny Bee Spa page on Yelp Search 415 Cambridge Ave on Google Maps	Beauty	2.18 miles	43 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Swirl Works page on Yelp Search 75 Arbor Rd on Google Maps	Beauty	3.76 miles	17 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Privado Hair Design page on Yelp Search 447 Cambridge Ave on Google Maps	Beauty	2.16 miles	10 reviews	5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Palo Alto, CA

Population Households Employment

Palo Alto has 26,054 households, with an average household size of 2.55. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Palo Alto do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 67,231 people call Palo Alto home. The population density is 2,795.34 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

67,231

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

42.5

Median Age

48.49 / 51.51%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

Less Than 9th Grade
High School Degree
Associate Degree
Bachelor Degree
Graduate Degree

26,054

Total Households

2.55

Average Household Size

$121,565

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married

Single

Divorced

Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes

15 to 29 Minutes

30 to 59 Minutes

60+ Minutes

Schools in Palo Alto, CA

All ()

Primary Schools ()

Middle Schools ()

High Schools ()

Mixed Schools ()

The following schools are within or nearby Palo Alto. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Type

Name