San Mateo County Public RecordsCalifornia

As of the 2020 Census, San Mateo County, CA, had a population of approximately 764,400. The median age is about 41 years, with 49% male and 51% female. Racial/ethnic composition is 36% White (non-Hispanic), 31% Asian, 1.6% Black or African American, and 2% Pacific Islander; 25% identify as Hispanic or Latino of any race. The county is characterized by its diverse, multilingual community and substantial immigrant population.

San Mateo County, CA, has over 463,000 registered voters as of 2024, with Democrats comprising about 53%, Republicans 14%, and No Party Preference 28%. Elections include federal, state, local, and special ballots, with all-mail voting and about 45 secure Vote Center locations. In the 2022 general election, turnout was approximately 65%. Recent issues include housing, public transit, and climate resilience. Elections are administered by the San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division, ensuring accessible, transparent processes. Major parties remain Democratic and Republican, with third parties and independents holding marginal influence.

San Mateo County, CA, offers strong educational opportunities, with over 30 public high schools and a high school graduation rate of about 89%. Around 54% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county features 23 public school districts, numerous private schools, and adult education centers like San Mateo Adult School. Average school safety ratings score above 7/10, and diverse programs include STEM, arts, and dual-language immersion. Robust community college options, like College of San Mateo, further support lifelong learning.

San Mateo County, CA, boasts an employment rate of approximately 66.5%. Major industries include professional, scientific, and technical services (20%), healthcare (11%), and retail trade (9%). The leading occupations are in management (17%), followed by sales (10%) and computer/mathematical roles (9%). About 71% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 28 minutes; 11% use public transit. While 45% of residents work within the county, others commute to neighboring San Francisco (18%) and Santa Clara (15%) counties, reflecting its role as a Bay Area employment hub.

San Mateo County, CA, boasts a median home value of around $1.5 million (2024), with approximately 59% of residents owning homes and 41% renting. Median rents average $3,500/month. The market remains competitive, with 2024 year-over-year home values increasing about 5%. Housing varies from single-family homes to condos and apartments, notably in neighborhoods like San Mateo, Redwood City, and Burlingame. Property tax rates are about 1.18%. The area’s high demand drives up prices, making it among the priciest U.S. housing markets.

San Mateo County, CA, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to statewide averages. In 2023, the violent crime rate was 2.4 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stood at 15.7 per 1,000. The county reported around 1,900 violent and 12,100 property crimes, with burglary, theft, and vehicle break-ins being most common. Public safety agencies use online tools for transparent reporting and encourage community participation. Overall, San Mateo County is considered safer than 70% of U.S. counties, though residents are advised to stay vigilant, especially in urban centers and popular public areas.