According to the San Jose Mercury News, Los Altos was the most expensive town in California for the month of October 2010 with a median sales price of $1.7 million. While I love that Los Altos is always near the top of the state and national ranking as most expensive ZIP code, this time the paper got it wrong.

Los Altos Hills and Atherton both had median sales prices higher than Los Altos in October. It wasn't a matter of being close, both were well past Los Altos.  Those are just a couple of examples.  There are other towns around the Bay Area that also have prices higher than Los Altos.  When these lists are published, I find that they are better when based on ZIP codes (modified by town) so that they represent an accurate view of all possible areas.  When the list is compiled that way, you get much better figures.

So, why the differences? I have found that when papers post #1 stats for any town based on sales they often have minimum population sizes.  So, Los Altos will make the top of the list with a population over 30,000 but Los Altos Hills won't because it only has less than 10,000 residents.  Atherton is also left off the list.  So, it's a little deceptive to note that Los Altos is the #1 most expensive town in California.

The good news is that Los Altos prices are, in fact, increasing and we should continue to see market leading home prices going into 2011.  Los Altos is still considered one of the most desirable markets in the country and while it may not be #1, it's still the top destination for many buyers.

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 Bryan Robertson, President | T: 650.799.9951 | Email: bryan@arrivva.com | Website: http://www.BryanRobertsonHomes.com |CA License: 01191946 | ARIVVA  | 744 San Antonio Road Ste 24 | Palo Alto, CA 94303

 

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3 Comments on Los Altos Ranks #1 Most Expensive Town In California

NOV
24
2010
150,155 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Bryan, I agree.  I think "less is more"; i.e., less inventory is leading to higher prices right now.  Especially with sellers starting to price their homes more realistically from the start.
11:32am • #1
NOV
25
2010

With just 36 days left in 2010, Zoey the Cool Cat and I just wanted to stop by and wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving. Hope it’s a great one, with lots of fun and food with family and friends!

Happy Thanksgiving!
3:12am • #2
862,910 Points 174 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Hi Russel - Thanks for posting.  Happy Thanksgiving to you too!
10:50am • #3

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Bryan Robertson, Real estate broker Los Altos & Silicon Valley Luxury Homes

Los Altos, CA

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