In 1937 the Town changed its lot size minimum to one-half acre and its frontage minimum to 150 feet, which are the limits in force today. One of the main attractions that Hillsborough has for home buyers is its rural charm, which is not always captured in the newer developments. However, Hillsborough still offers its escape from the pressures of the city. In addition to its generally quiet atmosphere, people are attracted to Hillsborough for its excellent public schools, fine police and fire protection, public works service, and the stability that the community offers. At the turn of the 20th century, Menlo Park was a summer home location for wealthy San Francisco professionals.
Many large homes remain from that era with huge oak trees and other lush vegetation.
Today Menlo Park is an upscale community, primarily residential, with a number of private prep schools, colleges and an excellent public school system. A complete selection of shops and stores is available downtown along with many fine restaurants. Located at the southern-most end of San Mateo County, the population of 35,000 which includes West Menlo Park enjoys one of the nation's lowest crime rates. Although most of the homes are valued well above the Peninsula average, there are affordable areas in Menlo Park. An attractive, established residential community located on the San Francisco Peninsula some 16 miles south of San Francisco.