San Francisco Peninsula, San Francisco County
Burlingame, San Francisco
An affluent city with a charming downtown and beautiful tree-lined streets
Burlingame is an incorporated city in San Mateo County, known for its affluent residential character, its charming downtown, and its beautiful tree-lined streets. As a city on the Peninsula, Burlingame combines residential neighborhoods with a walkable downtown centered on Burlingame Avenue. The city is known for its excellent schools, its eucalyptus-lined streets, and its location near San Francisco International Airport.
History & Local Character
Burlingame was founded in the 1890s and incorporated as a city in 1908. The city was named after Anson Burlingame, a diplomat, and grew as a residential community for San Francisco's elite. The city has maintained its affluent, residential character, with large homes, tree-lined streets, and a charming downtown. The city is known for its excellent schools and its proximity to San Francisco.
Neighborhoods & Communities
Downtown Burlingame centers on Burlingame Avenue with shops, restaurants, and a charming, walkable atmosphere. The residential areas include single-family homes on tree-lined streets, with many historic and estate properties. The area near the bay offers waterfront commercial and hotel options.
Housing & Real Estate
Burlingame's housing market is one of the most expensive on the Peninsula, with a mix of single-family homes, estates, and condos. Prices are driven by the city's schools, charm, and location. The market is competitive, and the estate properties command premium prices.
Restaurants & Shopping
Burlingame's dining scene is centered on downtown and Burlingame Avenue, with a range of restaurants from casual to upscale. The city offers American, international, and California cuisine, and the downtown area is walkable and popular for dining and shopping.
Schools & Education
Burlingame School District and San Mateo Union High School District serve the city with highly regarded public schools. The quality of the schools is a major draw for families and contributes to the city's property values.
Parks & Recreation
Burlingame maintains numerous parks, including Washington Park and the Burlingame waterfront. The city is near the San Francisco Bay Trail and the bay shoreline for hiking and biking. The city maintains recreation facilities and neighborhood parks.
Transportation & Accessibility
Burlingame is served by Caltrain with the Broadway and Burlingame stations, connecting the city to San Francisco and Silicon Valley. The city is along Highway 101 and El Camino Real, and is adjacent to San Francisco International Airport. SamTrans operates local buses.
Local Businesses
Burlingame's economy includes retail, professional services, and hospitality, with several hotels near the airport. The city supports a strong small business community of restaurants, retail shops, and professional services, particularly in the downtown area.
Nearby Attractions
- Downtown Burlingame Avenue
- Washington Park
- Burlingame waterfront
- San Francisco International Airport (adjacent)
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Charming, walkable downtown with shops and restaurants
- Highly regarded public schools
- Beautiful, tree-lined streets
- Caltrain connection and proximity to SFO
Considerations
- Among the most expensive housing on the Peninsula
- Aircraft noise from SFO in some areas
- Traffic on Highway 101 during peak hours
- Limited housing inventory
Burlingame FAQs
Is Burlingame part of the Bay Area?
Yes. Burlingame is in San Mateo County and is part of the Bay Area, located on the Peninsula near San Francisco International Airport.
Are Burlingame schools good?
Yes. Burlingame School District and San Mateo Union High School District are highly regarded, and the quality of the schools is a major draw for families.
Is Burlingame near SFO?
Yes. Burlingame is adjacent to San Francisco International Airport, and the city has several hotels that serve airport travelers.