Tucked at the base of the San Francisco Peninsula, Los Altos is a quiet, understated community that is regularly ranked as one of the wealthiest cities in America. Its neighborhoods are characterized by large lots, wide streets, and leafy surroundings, giving the area a pastoral feel despite its close proximity to bustling Silicon Valley establishments.

A small, upscale downtown forms the city’s nucleus and holds the bulk of the community’s businesses due to very strict commercial zoning. The excellent schools in this area are some of the most sought-after educational facilities in the state of California.

Compared to the compact, vibrant communities of neighboring Palo Alto, Los Altos Hills is a rustic paradise. Its rolling topography is shrouded in natural beauty, and many of its homes enjoy spectacular panoramas extending to San Francisco Bay. These gorgeous surroundings attract many high-profile homeowners, and the community’s lack of commercial establishments and strict construction regulations lend to its exclusive character.

Los Altos Hills provides residents with a distinct outdoor culture thanks to miles of recreational trails and expansive nature preserves. Private residences in this area are typically large gated estates, many of which showcase guesthouses, vineyards, and sprawling gardens.

An agricultural community once occupied by acres of orchards and farmland, Mountain View has recently gained global recognition for fostering a different sort of product: technology. The city now harbors the offices of some of the world’s top technology companies, including Google, Symantec, Mozilla, and Intuit.

Because of its world-class status, the city has developed a dynamic downtown area boasting a diverse array of dining, shopping, and entertainment establishments. Stevens Creek Trail spans much of the city, allowing residents to easily commute via bicycle to many local tech powerhouses.