Almond Grove

Almond Grove is one of only five officially designated historic districts in Los Gatos and arguably the most beloved. The neighborhood was first auctioned in 1887 from a former 40-acre almond orchard subdivided into 170 lots, and 121 sold on the first day. Today the area is defined by Victorian, Queen Anne, and Craftsman homes on tree-lined streets immediately west and south of Santa Cruz Avenue, the heart of downtown Los Gatos. Many homes are protected by historic preservation guidelines, ensuring the character endures.

The location is the differentiator. Almond Grove is within walking distance of every defining Los Gatos amenity: Santa Cruz Avenue's restaurants, wine tasting rooms, boutiques, and farmers market; Bachman Park; the Old Town shopping center; and Vasona Lake County Park (a short walk south). The schools, Daves Avenue Elementary, Fisher Middle, and Los Gatos High School, are all top-rated, with Los Gatos High consistently among the best public high schools in California.

Pricing is firmly in luxury territory. Median home prices are around $2.6M-$3.8M, with larger Victorian estates and updated Craftsman homes pushing well above $4M. The neighborhood appeals to buyers who want walkable downtown access, historic character, and top schools, a combination that's increasingly rare and increasingly valuable. Inventory is tight; homes often need significant maintenance or restoration; and parking and lot sizes are constrained compared to suburban Los Gatos. For buyers who prioritize character and walkability over space, Almond Grove is one of the South Bay's most distinctive neighborhoods.