Los Gatos is a small town at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains, where Highway 17 begins its climb toward the coast. It pairs a historic, walkable downtown with trails, parks and hillside views, and it’s one of the most sought-after places to live in the South Bay.
Why Buyers Choose Los Gatos
- Downtown: North Santa Cruz Avenue and the surrounding historic district are lined with restaurants, boutiques and cafes.
- Outdoors: The Los Gatos Creek Trail, Vasona Lake County Park, Oak Meadow Park and Lexington Reservoir are all close by.
- Location: Highway 17 heads to Santa Cruz beaches, while Highway 85 connects to the rest of Silicon Valley.
Homes in Los Gatos
Housing ranges widely. Near downtown you’ll find Victorians, Craftsman bungalows and other historic homes, many on tree-lined streets. The flatter neighborhoods have ranch homes and remodeled mid-century houses, and the hills hold larger estate properties, some with acreage and sweeping views.
Schools
Much of the town is served by the Los Gatos Union School District for elementary and middle school and by Los Gatos High School in the Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District. Some neighborhoods with a Los Gatos mailing address fall into other districts, so confirm the assigned schools for each address.
Tips for Buying in Los Gatos
- Hillside homes need extra due diligence: wildfire risk and insurance availability, slope stability, and private wells or septic systems.
- Historic homes may come with design review rules that affect remodels and additions.
- Check the mailing address versus the town limits; it affects schools, taxes and permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Gatos a good place for families?
Yes. Strong schools, parks and a walkable downtown make it a long-time favorite for families.
What should I know about buying a hillside home?
Plan for a fire-risk review, insurance quotes and inspections of wells, septic and drainage before you remove contingencies. Najwa can walk you through the process.
Thinking about Los Gatos? Contact Najwa Khoury for current listings, or request a free market analysis if you’re selling.