Why Live in Duveneck-Saint Francis
Duveneck-St. Francis in Palo Alto is a historic neighborhood within the Green Gables subdivision, developed in the 1950s by architect Joseph Eichler. Known for its midcentury modern homes with exposed beams and floor-to-ceiling windows, the area also features 1940s ranch-style homes and cottages. The neighborhood is shaded by mature oaks and eucalyptus trees, creating a picturesque setting. Families are drawn to the highly rated schools, including Duveneck Elementary, Frank S. Greene Middle, and Palo Alto High, as well as private options like Stratford School and Castilleja School. Rinconada Park, within walking distance, offers swimming, tennis, a zoo, a museum, and a library, while Eleanor Pardee Park provides playgrounds and community gardens. The Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo and the Palo Alto Art Center are also nearby. California Avenue, a short bike ride away, features local shops and restaurants such as Mediterranean Wraps, Joanie’s Café, Terún, and Zareen’s, along with a weekly farmers market. The neighborhood is bordered by U.S. Highway 101, the Oregon Expressway, and Embarcadero Road, with the Caltrain’s California Avenue station 2 miles south. Duveneck-St. Francis is bike- and pedestrian-friendly, with dedicated lanes and sidewalks. Safety is comparable to the national average. However, most of the area is in a flood zone, requiring flood insurance and special permits for construction, and residents may experience ash and smoke from nearby wildfires.
