The Willows - Menlo Park

The Willows is a sought-after Menlo Park neighborhood known for its charming tree-lined streets, mix of historic bungalows and modern remodels, and its unbeatable location bordering Palo Alto. With easy access to Highway 101, downtown Menlo Park, and top-rated schools, The Willows offers a relaxed community feel while staying close to Silicon Valley’s major hubs.

Living in The Willows, Menlo Park

The Willows neighborhood of Menlo Park is a charming, tree-lined community bordering Palo Alto along the San Francisquito Creek. Developed in the 1920s, it features a mix of modest bungalows, craftsman-style homes, and modern remodels. Today, The Willows is highly sought-after thanks to its welcoming feel, excellent schools, and Silicon Valley location.

Neighborhood Overview

Life in The Willows is laid-back. Despite nearby Highway 101, Willow Road, and University Avenue, the streets remain quiet and shaded by mature trees. The neighborhood has small-town charm with local shops along Menalto Avenue and Gilbert Avenue, including La Hacienda Market, Midnight Munchies Bakery, and Studio Cake. Just across the creek, Downtown Palo Alto is a short drive away via Chaucer Street.

Over the past decade, gentrification has brought many Silicon Valley professionals with young families, drawn by excellent schools, affordable entry prices compared to nearby Palo Alto, and easy access to Interstate 101 and the Dumbarton Bridge. Remodels and expansions have balanced the historic character with modern living.

Real Estate in The Willows

  • 1920s–1930s cottages, mid-century ranch homes, and modern residences
  • Lot sizes: typically 5,000–7,500 sq. ft.
  • Home Styles: bungalows, craftsman, and newer custom builds
  • Close commute to Meta, Stanford, and Google
  • Price range: $2.2M – $4.5M+, with larger remodeled homes commanding premium prices

Schools & Education

  • Laurel Elementary School (K–5)
  • Encinal Elementary School (K–5)
  • Hillview Middle School (6–8)
  • Menlo-Atherton High School
  • Nearby private options: Sacred Heart Schools, Menlo School

Lifestyle & Amenities

  • Easy access to Willow Oaks Park, Burgess Park, and nearby Palo Alto parks
  • Minutes from 101, Dumbarton Bridge, and Caltrain for commuting
  • Nearby hotspots: University Avenue dining in Palo Alto, Menlo Park downtown shops, Stanford University and Stanford Shopping Center

Local Favorites

  • Cafe Zoe – beloved neighborhood café and community hub
  • Willows Market – local grocery with fresh produce and specialty items
  • Cafe Borrone & Kepler’s Books – nearby in Downtown Menlo Park

FAQ

Is The Willows a good place to live?

Yes! Families love The Willows for its quiet streets, excellent schools, and community feel, while professionals value its proximity to Palo Alto and tech companies.

How much do homes in The Willows cost?

As of 2025, most homes range from $2.2M to $4.5M+, with remodeled and new construction homes on larger lots commanding premium prices.

Which schools serve The Willows?

The Willows is in the Menlo Park City School District, with access to Laurel/Encinal Elementary, Hillview Middle, and Menlo-Atherton High School. Nearby private options include Sacred Heart and Menlo School.

Why do families move to The Willows for schools?

The schools are highly rated, and the neighborhood’s strong sense of community makes it easy for families to get involved.

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Overview for The Willows - Menlo Park, CA

3,967 people live in The Willows - Menlo Park, where the median age is 45 and the average individual income is $149,441. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

3,967

Total Population

45 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$149,441

Average individual Income

Around The Willows - Menlo Park, CA

There's plenty to do around The Willows - Menlo Park, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

78
Very Walkable
Walking Score
83
Very Bikeable
Bike Score
40
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Midtown Mixology, Tailors’ Keep, and Persian Dancing with Shadan.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 2.07 miles 22 reviews 5/5 stars
Shopping 0.94 miles 9 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.63 miles 11 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1 miles 15 reviews 5/5 stars
Beauty 1.89 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for The Willows - Menlo Park, CA

The Willows - Menlo Park has 1,641 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in The Willows - Menlo Park do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 3,967 people call The Willows - Menlo Park home. The population density is 15,956.677 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

3,967

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

45

Median Age

52.61 / 47.39%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
1,641

Total Households

2

Average Household Size

$149,441

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in The Willows - Menlo Park, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby The Willows - Menlo Park. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

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