$3,074,790Average Value$1,471Average Price per Sq Ft5Homes For Sale
Country living on the edge of Silicon Valley
Monte Sereno has been the home of creative minds from author John Steinbeck to artist Thomas Kinkade; today, it’s home to Silicon Valley innovators who want a private, spacious retreat. “It’s nestled in the hills, and you have properties with a lot of acreage and greenery,” says Sammi Moser-Wingo, a broker associate at The Agency and lifelong resident of Los Gatos and Monte Sereno. “It’s considered a prestigious area of Los Gatos, because a lot of the properties haven’t been subdivided. They’re a half-acre and up. It allows for more estate-style homes and luxury properties.”
Located within 3 miles of Los Gatos and Saratoga, Monte Sereno’s residents enjoy the convenience of both cities while being steps away from the wilderness of the El Sereno Open Space Preserve. The overall CAP Index Crime Score is 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4, and nearby houses of worship include First Baptist Community Church and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Los Gatos downtown is a hot spot nearby Monte Sereno for events, dining, and shopping.
Kids and parents love Farmers Market Kids Day in Los Gatos.
1/2
Custom luxury homes in the foothills
“More than half of the original midcentury ranch-style houses here have been demolished, and new beautiful homes have been erected in their place,” Moser-Wingo says. Newer styles include midcentury modern, 21st-century modern and Craftsman-influenced homes. “It’s all very custom and elegantly done — modern homes, Tuscan homes, any type of style you can imagine. It helps keep it unique and not cookie-cutter.” Moser-Wingo continues, “Everyone takes a lot of pride in how they present their home. It’s a beautiful area to walk through, with a lot of people out walking their dogs or walking in groups.” In May 2024, the median home price here was $4.3 million; prices are up 7% from 2023. A three-bedroom midcentury-modern ranch-style home can start at $2.5 million, while a six-bedroom 21st-century modern home can cost $11.8 million.
Find your dream home in the hills of Monte Sereno.
Large traditional style homes can be found in Monte Sereno.
1/2
Join a club at Los Gatos High
Local kids can start school at Daves Avenue Elementary, then attend Raymond J. Fisher Middle; both earn an A rating from Niche. The A-plus-rated Los Gatos High offers over 100 student clubs, including the AI Research Club, Pickleball Club and Filmmaking Club. Athletic options include field hockey, badminton and wrestling, and the school's sports teams regularly participate in community service projects like cleaning up local parks and volunteering at senior centers.
Daves Avenue Elelmentary is attended by children from all over Monte Sereno.
Children from Monte Sereno often attend Raymond J. Fisher Middle School.
This is one of the newer building on the Los Gatos High School campus in the Monte Sereno area.
1/3
Hike at the El Sereno Open Space Preserve
The 1,614-acre El Sereno Open Space Preserve is just to the south in the Santa Cruz Mountains, and the trailhead for its Aquinas Trail is accessible from the neighborhood; this out-and-back trail includes 8 miles of chaparral meadows and views of the South Bay. Across University Avenue at the 152-acre Vasona Lake County Park, residents can rent a paddleboat during the summer or enjoy a picnic on the vast greenspace. The private La Rinconada Country Club includes a swimming pool, as well as a par-70 golf course with mountain views.
Get a good leg work out with a paddle boat dock at the Vasona County Lake Park in Monte Sereno.
Vasona County Lake Park has plenty of open fields and walking paths in Monte Sereno.
1/2
Breakfast in Los Gatos, dinner in Saratoga Village
“Monte Sereno connects arguably the cutest downtown areas in the South Bay: Los Gatos and Saratoga,” Moser-Wingo says. Downtown Los Gatos is a walkable stretch of local businesses and restaurants along Santa Cruz Avenue, including Los Gatos Café, a local breakfast staple that's been serving massive cinnamon rolls since 1987. In Saratoga Village, Big Basin Way is lined with hangouts like La Fondue, which serves European-style cheese fondue with a variety of dipping options, including wagyu beef, venison and local vegetables. Grocery options include Safeway and Lunardi’s, and fresh produce is available each Sunday at the Los Gatos Farmers Market.
Downtown Los Gatos offers a vibrant scene for couples, adding to Monte Sereno appeal.
Locals come by Los Gatos Farmers Market and stock up on seasonal produce.
1/2
Tucked away from major thoroughfares
State Route 9 is the main road through Monte Sereno. The Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) light rail’s Winchester station is 5 miles north, and the VTA bus makes several stops on Winchester Boulevard. State Route 9 and Daves Avenue have dedicated bike lanes, and sidewalks are uncommon. The Good Samaritan Hospital is 4 miles east, and the San José Mineta International Airport is a 13-mile trip.
The Los Gatos Children’s Christmas Holidays Parade
Each December, Monte Sereno’s residents flock to downtown Los Gatos for the Los Gatos Children’s Christmas Holidays Parade. “It’s a huge event where basically all the town goes,” Moser-Wingo says. “They close Main Street, and everyone lines the street. You have Santa and local Boy Scout troops, and all different members of the community have a chance to dress up and make floats.”
Increased wildfire risk south of state Route 9
Homes south of state Route 9 are in the wildland-urban interface, an area of high wildfire risk. Residents here should have an emergency plan in case of a wildfire, and residents throughout Monte Sereno may experience reduced air quality from nearby wildfires.
Written By
Annie Franklin
Photography Contributed By
Richard Waltemath
Video By
Taylor Noll
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michael Hall,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Monte Sereno, CA sell after 37 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Monte Sereno, CA over the last 12 months is $4,400,000, down 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Tucked at the end of a court in a desirable Los Gatos neighborhood with top schools, this single-story home on a generous corner lot offers outdoor space rarely found in this area. The floor plan features all bedrooms on one wing, including a primary suite with sliding doors to the side yard. On the opposite side, the main living areas are designed for entertaining, featuring a beautifully
This classic California Craftsman is a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in the highly sought-after Glenridge neighborhood of Los Gatos with approximately 3000 square feet living space. Set on an expansive 11,850 sq. ft. lot, this single-story home offers effortless living surrounded by beautiful garden views. Just a few blocks from downtown Los Gatos and steps to Bachman Park, the location is
An extraordinary historic estate in Monte Sereno, where timeless architecture and preserved craftsmanship meet thoughtful modern updates. Spanning 3,802 sq ft, this 5 bedroom home includes a dedicated office and bonus room. The primary suite is on the main level, featuring a bathroom with a custom stained glass piece of lilies illuminated from outside. Upstairs offers three generous bedrooms and
15301 Robin Anne Lane is not simply a residence, it is a private resort perched above a serene canyon in one of Monte Sereno's most prestigious enclaves, moments to downtown Los Gatos and Vasona Park. Fully gated for privacy and security, the estate offers an exceptional sense of arrival. Beyond the grand iron gates, timeless architecture blends with modern sophistication, showcasing high
Tucked at the end of a court in a desirable Los Gatos neighborhood with top schools, this single-story home on a generous corner lot offers outdoor space rarely found in this area. The floor plan features all bedrooms on one wing, including a primary suite with sliding doors to the side yard. On the opposite side, the main living areas are designed for entertaining, featuring a beautifully
Set in the highly coveted Oakwood neighborhood of Los Gatos, 727 Bicknell Rd presents a rare opportunity to own an estate-like property on an approx. ONE-ACRE picturesque lot. Surrounded by natural beauty and privacy, the home captures sweeping views and exceptional natural light throughout. The main living area features vaulted ceilings and an effortless flow between the living room, dining
Hidden along a quiet stretch of Winchester Boulevard, this LG property is accessed via a long private drive surrounded by mature trees & landscaping, creating a peaceful, secluded setting. Motor court, 3-car garage & inviting outdoor areas give the property a private feel. Inside, a striking black entry door opens to wood floors, vaulted ceilings & expansive windows that fill the home with
Amy McCaffertyGolden Gate Sotheby's International Realty
This classic California Craftsman is a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in the highly sought-after Glenridge neighborhood of Los Gatos with approximately 3000 square feet living space. Set on an expansive 11,850 sq. ft. lot, this single-story home offers effortless living surrounded by beautiful garden views. Just a few blocks from downtown Los Gatos and steps to Bachman Park, the location is
Monte Sereno perfection! This beautifully designed home offers 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 refined bathrooms, perfect for comfortable living. The open-concept layout is flooded with natural light, showcasing a sleek, modern kitchen with top-tier appliances and elegant finishes. Step out onto a welcoming deck that overlooks a serene pool area and a meticulously landscaped backyard, ideal for
Rare opportunity to build a dream estate in a premier platinum Monte Sereno neighborhood ideally located within minutes from award-winning Los Gatos schools,parks and vibrant Downtown Los Gatos, renowned for exceptional dining,boutique shopping,farmers markets and year-round community events.Easy access to major freeways offers a seamless Silicon Valley commute.Privately situated at the end of a
Carol JeansChristie's International Real Estate Sereno
Rare opportunity to own Monte Sereno acre estate on prestigious Withey Rd boasting one of the South Bay's best views of the Valley. Only a 25-minute walk or 4-minute drive to vibrant downtown Los Gatos yet nestled in privacy. Set on an elevated private hillside with sweeping city-light and hillside views, this move-in-ready home offers rare seclusion in the areas most exclusive enclaves, while
Welcome to 15288 Via Pinto, a custom transitional ranch completed in 2021. Designed by Gary Schloh and crafted by Parden Construction, this modern Monte Sereno masterpiece offers approximately 8,328 square feet of refined living on nearly half an acre. A dramatic foyer introduces sun-filled formal living and dining areas with soaring ceilings, exquisite finishes, and an effortless sense of scale.
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, this extraordinary Monte Sereno estate represents a rare fusion of grand scale, refined elegance, & unparalleled convenience. Recently transformed through a $10M+ comprehensive renovation, the residence evokes the timeless grandeur of a stately European estate. Set on 1.37 pristine, flat acres, it offers approximately 17,000 square feet of impeccably
The Bay Tree Apartment Community of Los Gatos is tucked away in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Enjoy the small town feel coupled with rolling scenic views. Choose among spacious one and two bedroom floor plans to call home. Flush with luxury amenities such as modern cabinetry with designer fixtures, upgraded countertops, wood-grain finish floors, spacious closets, and oversized patios
Discover Your Private Retreat in Monte Sereno Nestled in the prestigious enclave of Monte Sereno, this secluded redwood-shingled compound offers an unparalleled opportunity for serene living. Situated at the end of a private road, this charming home is perfect for those seeking both comfort and tranquility. Offering 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, the property features a warm living room complete
West Los Gatos offers a walkable village lifestyle with highly rated schools and hiking trails through the Santa Cruz Mountains. “It has so much character and maintains a very small-town feel,” says Ducky Grabill, a Realtor with Christie’s International Sereno who’s lived here for over 40 years. “It's got an extremely wonderful sense of community. There are always town fundraisers and events like the Wine Walk and Music in the Park.”
The mix of community and nature has made West Los Gatos (pronounced loss GAT-ohs) a popular place for Silicon Valley’s tech executives to settle down. Netflix is headquartered in the neighborhood’s north, and Highways 17 and 85 provide convenient access to the rest of the Bay Area. “It’s a charming little European-like village tucked up against the foothills,” says Kim Richman, a Realtor with Compass who’s lived in the area for 30 years. “Rich people from San Francisco used to come down to vacation and get out of the fog. That’s when downtown was built with all these little cottages. Now it’s very high-end.”
Along Santa Cruz Avenue in West Los Gatos’ “Old Town,” local shops like She She Boutique sit next to national brands like Anthropologie. The area is packed with restaurants, including the Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company, a local institution since 1982. This cozy coffee shop’s location near the St. Joseph’s Hill Open Space Preserve trailheads makes it a popular spot for cyclists and runners to refuel. “You see everybody there in their spandex and running shoes,” Grabill says. Residents can spend their evenings enjoying a taste of New Orleans at The Bywater, a casual Big Easy-inspired bar that earns the Bib Gourmand rating from the Michelin Guide. The upscale Forbes Mill Steakhouse serves high-quality steaks and seafood; their wine list won Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence in 2023. Residents can shop for fresh veggies each Sunday at the Los Gatos Farmers Market downtown; grocery options include Safeway and Lunardi’s.
Each December, the annual Los Gatos Children’s Christmas Holidays Parade draws thousands of people downtown to watch holiday-themed floats, marching bands and Santa Claus amble down Santa Cruz Avenue. Downtown is also home to smaller year-round events, including the free summer concert series Jazz on the Plazz and Wine Walks in spring and fall.
Near downtown, early 20th-century Craftsman and Queen Anne bungalows sit on tree-lined streets lined with picket fences, colorful gardens and manicured lawns. “The building department is very sensitive to maintaining the exterior period of the original architecture,” Grabill says. “You can’t just do whatever you want.” In May 2024, the median home price was $2.9 million. A two-bedroom Craftsman bungalow downtown can start at $1.7 million, while a five-bedroom Craftsman can cost $5 million.
Further west, early 20th-century Spanish Colonials and 21st-century Craftsman-inspired homes are set further back from the hilly streets, which trade sidewalks and picket fences for driveways and privacy hedges. Prices range from $1.6 million for a three-bedroom to $7.6 million for a five-bedroom. Townhouses are available in the neighborhood’s north; a two-bed can start at $1.2 million, while a three-bed can cost $2.8 million. The overall CAP Index Crime Score is 3 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4; violent crime receives a score of 1 out of 10.
According to both Grabill and Richman, the schools are one of West Los Gatos’ biggest draws. Local kids can start at Daves Avenue Elementary and then attend Raymond J. Fisher Middle; both earn an A from Niche. At the A-plus-rated Los Gatos High, students can get involved in over 100 clubs and nearly 30 sports. The Los Gatos Wildcats football team is a highlight, winning championships as recently as 2023. “It was magic,” Richman says of the team’s 2023 season. “The whole town rallied behind the school.”
The 152-acre Vasona Lake County Park, just north of downtown, is a community gathering space where residents can paddleboat in the lake and stroll along 2 miles of trails. To the south, hikers and mountain bikers can have their pick of trails in the 1,614-acre El Sereno Open Space Preserve and the 270-acre St. Joseph’s Hill Open Space Preserve. The private La Rinconada Country Club’s par-70 golf course and swimming pool provide alternative ways to get outside. The CineLux Los Gatos Theatre downtown shows the latest blockbusters in a restored Art Deco movie theater. Nearby houses of worship include St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.
Highway 85 passes through West Los Gatos’ north, and Highway 17 in the east connects to the beaches of Santa Cruz, 21 miles south. According to Richman, summer beach traffic on Highway 17 can cause congestion throughout the neighborhood. “Waze sends people through the residential streets downtown to try to avoid the traffic on 17,” she says. “Every little street can get completely jammed on a three-day weekend.” Residents can get around the neighborhood on the Valley Transportation Authority bus. Bike-friendly residential streets and sidewalks make the area convenient for cyclists and pedestrians. The Good Samaritan Hospital is 3 miles away, and the San José Mineta International Airport is a 12-mile trip.
Homes south of Saratoga-Los Gatos Road are in the wildland-urban interface, an area of increased fire risk. Residents here are advised to have an emergency plan in case of a wildfire, and they may experience smoke and ash during fires in the Santa Cruz Mountains to the south.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Monte Sereno Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
3,137
Median Age
52
Population under 18
19.7%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
27.9%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$246,953
Significantly above the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$234,412
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
98.9%
College Graduates
81.8%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
46.4%
Significantly above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
54.9%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
17''
Average Winter Low Temperature
43°F
Average Summer High Temperature
82°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Fairly friendly
Bike Score®®
50/ 100
Somewhat friendly
Walk Score®®
30/ 100
Not friendly
Transit Score®®
0/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
