A refined yet approachable Silicon Valley community known for its central location and timeless appeal.
North of Palo Alto and extending across the Midpeninsula to Interstate 280, Menlo Park is one of Silicon Valley's most desirable communities. While many know it today as the home of Meta and the renowned Sand Hill Road venture capital corridor, its history dates back much further.
The area was originally part of Rancho de las Pulgas and later became one of the final stops along the San Francisco and San Jose Railroad. The city's historic train station, now a California Historical Landmark, remains the oldest continuously operating passenger train station in the state.
Menlo Park received its name from two Irish immigrants who settled in the area and named their property after their hometown of Mionloch, Ireland. Over time, Menlo Park grew thoughtfully and intentionally, helping preserve its distinctive character and small-town atmosphere.
Today, Menlo Park blends convenience with understated luxury, offering easy access to Stanford University, Palo Alto, and major technology campuses while maintaining its welcoming residential feel. Tree-lined streets, charming neighborhoods, and a vibrant downtown continue to make it one of the Peninsula's most sought-after communities.
Menlo Park's layout is made up of several distinct areas that together create a uniquely balanced community.
The northeastern section includes the headquarters of Meta and the expansive Bedwell Bayfront Park. The central portion of the city combines residential neighborhoods, retail districts, and business centers, while Sharon Heights offers a more secluded residential setting among rolling hills and mature trees.
The community attracts professionals, entrepreneurs, academics, and families who appreciate a lifestyle that combines suburban comfort with urban convenience. Adjacent to Atherton and neighboring Stanford University, Menlo Park enjoys one of the most desirable locations in the Bay Area.
Menlo Park offers an impressive collection of restaurants, cafés, and boutique shopping destinations throughout its 17 square miles.
Downtown Santa Cruz Avenue serves as the heart of the community, where locally owned businesses, sidewalk cafés, and upscale boutiques create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Menlo Park's retail scene includes everything from independent boutiques to specialty shops. Local favorites include toy stores, gourmet markets, home goods shops, and pet boutiques.
Draeger's Market remains a beloved community institution, offering premium groceries, prepared foods, and specialty products.
Menlo Park offers a variety of outdoor spaces, cultural destinations, and recreational opportunities.
Popular local attractions include:
Bedwell Bayfront Park is among the area's most treasured outdoor destinations, offering expansive open space, scenic walking trails, and beautiful Bay views adjacent to a national wildlife refuge.
For arts and culture, Allied Arts Guild provides beautiful gardens, galleries, and artisan spaces that celebrate both historic and contemporary creativity.
Several highly regarded districts serve Menlo Park, including:
The city's proximity to Stanford University further enhances its reputation as one of the Peninsula's premier educational communities.
32,775 people live in Menlo Park, where the median age is 38.5 and the average individual income is $123,422. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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There's plenty to do around Menlo Park, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Persian Dancing with Shadan, Metro Taekwondo, and Strength Side Training.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active | 2.79 miles | 11 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.78 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.56 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.65 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.99 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.36 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.78 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.73 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.39 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.71 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Menlo Park has 11,624 households, with an average household size of 2.71. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Menlo Park do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 32,775 people call Menlo Park home. The population density is 3,281 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
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10-17 Years
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Total Households
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Average individual Income
Households with Children
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Blue vs White Collar Workers
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